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Silver Wings 

and 

Other Gems of Thought 
and Verse 

h 
E. A-B. 

(Mrs. Archer-Burton) 









1 <*'-^iZ^'i^ J i 



\ 



Silver Wings 

and 

Other Gems of Thought 
and Verse 

by 
E. A-B. 

(Mrs. Archer-Burton) 





Printed by 

The Roycrofters 

East Aurora 

N. Y. 






1 






©CIA 5 5 7 4 (I 

FEB 1 4 Ml 



o 



Foreword 



HIS little book of verses, is 
dedicated, to one who inspired 
many of them, and who, all 
unconsciously, furnished the 
incentive, without which they 
never would have been written 




CONTENTS 



Page 

A Bit of the Brogue 19 

A Catastrophe 33 

A Cure 42 

A. D. 1919 12 

A Friend 58 

A Meeting 29 

A Message 37 

A New Year's Greeting .... 37 

A Pagan Wish 26 

A Plea 52 

A Problem 12 

A Question 40 

A Recipe 27 

A Soliloquy 17 

A Summer Idyll 39 

A Summer's Night on the English 

Coast 48 

A Toast 21 

A Toast 40 

A Voice! 43 

A Wail 34 

Affinity 43 

Again 30 

AiDiMi! 41 

Aloes 17 

Alone 19 

America! England! 55 

Amicus Vitae Solatium .... 25 

An Angelus 53 

And Should You Know . . . . 17 

Armenia 55 

Ashes of Roses 21 

Aspiration 35 

At Last 53 

Awake, America! 52 

Barred Gates 32 

Bien-Aime! 43 

Cave! 12 

Come Over And Help Us • • • 53 

Compensation 29 

" Could Ye Not Watch With Me? " 53 

Cowards All! 34 

Cupid's Jest 30 

Cynthia 44 

Darkness and Dawn 41 

England 49 

Eternal Peace 43 

Eternal Peace 50 



Page 

Evanescent 40 

Even There 55 

Ever True 41 

Exit Amor 41 

Fanchette and The Gargoyle . 37 

Farewell Summer 36 

Farewell to Love 29 

Fleeting 13 

Follow the Flag 49 

Foreboding 15 

Forgotten 31 

Freedom 49 

Friendship 53 

Gates Ajar 47 

" God Giveth His Beloved Sleep! " 54 

Goija 22 

Good Friday 1918 51 

Gott Mit Uns 34 

Gray Days 38 

Guiding Star 21 

Heart's Desire 57 

He Comes 37 

He Knoweth Best 47 

Hooverizing 47 

How Many More? 19 



If Wishes Were Horses 
Incantation 



... 45 

. . . 20 

Kaiserliche, Almaechtigkeit ... 32 

Kettle Drums 45 

Kiss Me Summer 24 

" La Donna e Mobile " .... 38 

Lass mich Hinein! 32 

Laughing Love 4I 

Let There Be Light 43 

Lotus Buds 21 

Love and Youth 27 

Love at Dawn 29 

Love is King 15 

Love Laughs 37 

Lover of Mine 57 

Love's Eyes 36 

Love's Greatest Gift 43 

Love Spurned 24 

Messengers 12 

Mine 28 

Modest Wishes 57 

Morituri Te Salutant! .... 44 



Page 

Mother Love 39 

Mr. Hoover Again 33 

Musica 32 

My Garden 56 

My Lady 28 

My Lassie . . ._ 28 

My Lord's Palanquin .... 58 

My Own Land 46 

My Son 14 

No Limit 42 

On the Road to Camden ... 28 

Our Boys 54 

Out of the Mire 27 

Pan Pipes 24 

Parted 39 

Perquisites 13 

Phantasies 27 

Pin-Pricks 46 

Please 25 

Purposeless 43 

Quantum Sufficit! 23 

Quidam? 18 

Reassured 22 

Reincarnated 41 

Retrospect 31 

Ripples 42 

Rose on the Wall 16 

Roses on the Wall ! 24 

R. S. V. P 32 

Sand of the Desert 51 

Silver Wings 11 

Sea-Birds 13 

Smouldering Fires 46 

Somewhere In ****** 35 

Song 27 

Spring Comes 22 

Spring Comes . . -33 

Springtime from My Window 26 

Star Flies 45 

Sunset on the River 29 

Sweetheart 13 

Tanjore 20 

Temples 5° 

Temperamental 16 

The Answer 40 

The Answered Prayer .... 46 

The Daughter's Lament .... 34 

The Dawning 23 

The Dream Child 14 



Page 

The Fairy Prince 26 

The Gift 19 

The Gracious Hand 40 

The Guardian Sea 42 

The Heart's Answer 59 

The Line 51 

The Local Paper 33 

The Long Wall 22 

The Mirror 56 

The New Day 25 

The New Moon 41 

The Full Moon 41 

The Night Wind 58 

The Nook 42 

The Optimist 18 

The " Oriflamme " of France 31 

The Peacocks 36 

The South of Other Days ... 44 

The Sun Has No Glory .... 26 

The Summer Moon 46 

The Street 23 

The Time is Coming 28 

The University Gate 17 

The Vision 52 

The Vote! 36 

The Watchman 5° 

Three Words 30 

To a Photograph 12 

To Bubastis 18 

Together 15 

To Love 30 

To M. C. C 47 

To My Grandson 12 

To My Muse 39 

Too Dear 16 

Too Late! 38 

To Pan . . 25 

To the Little Ones Coming from 

School 19 

To the World 42 

Unafraid 54 

Valentine's Day 1919 . . . 29 

Victory! 55 

Voters 15 

When? 29 

Who is Pan? 24 

Winter in Minnesota 44 

Winter Twilight 18 

Worship 48 



Silver Wings 



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Silver Wings 

To a Lieutenant in The Lafayette 
Escadrille 



High, high, up in the sky, 

Over the mountain's crest. 

Low, low, swoop on the foe. 

Beating the hawk, at its best! 

Silver wings. 

Wonderful things! 

Borne on a brave boy's breast. 

Dart, and dash! quiver and flash! 

Swifter than eagles' flight. 

Sending the enemy down with a crash! 

Now hiding deep in the night. 

Silver wings. 

Wonderful things! 

Guide my brave boy aright! 

Silver wings, wonderful things! 

Soon may the glad day come. 

No more to rove, from the land of his love. 

When you bring my brave boy home. 

Silver wings. 

Wonderful things! 

To his mother's arms, and Home! 



12 



Silver IV i n g s 



TO A PHOTOGRAPH 

To think that once, I knew vou, knew you 

well! 
Called you by name, danced with you, 

and could tell 
The color of your eyes — and knew 
By heart, each feature of your dear, 

tanned face, 
Your splendid figure's strength, and 

manly grace! 
That heart to heart, and lip to lip, we 

stood. 
Once in the shadow of a scented wood — 
My heart was yours, your boy heart, 

mine I thought. 
Dear days of early youth; experience 

taught — 
Full many a lesson, hard and new — 
Ere Life's course ran so straight and true. 
To its real goal. My friend I give to you — 
A friendship, true and deep and warm — 
Filled full of memories, that can not harm 
Us now! 



CAVE! 

I PRAV you Antony, my Antony, beware^— 
Of black-browed Lucrece, and Aspasia, 

fair! 
With gilded locks! Entangled in her hair, 
I dream, your fingers toy in soft caress — 
Beloved — you are mine; you may not 

dare. 
To seek love's solace, in another's eyes. 
For Cleopatra, none may lightly care, 
Then turn aside to snatch a lesser prize! 
The murmuring Nile, in full flood of the 

Bears not as strong a torrent, on his 

breast. 
As Cleopatra's heart of love shall bear, 
To Antony — but let him jest — with love — 
Forgetting what the hours have seen. 
Then death to Antony, had kinder been. 
Had held less bitterness, than she who 

was his Queen! 



MESSENGERS 

The birds are here! 

Oh! dainty messengers of spring, 

I live to see, the golden chalice 

Of the year unfold — 

Again I see you bring — 

The promise, of glad days. 

And hear you, joyous pour — 

To earth, and sky, and air — 

Your roundelays — 

Of love, and life, and joy. 

And my glad heart. 

Echoes your praise! 

MY GRANDSON 

Son, of my son! Upon my breast. 

How soft and warm, he lies — 

Close, close, my heart, his baby form — 

And looking in his eyes. 

Again I see the little son, 

God gave one day, to me — 

So short a time ago, it seems — 

That could it really, be — 

My grandson, I was holding — 

Just now, upon my knee! 

A PROBLEM 

Two pairs of eyes, look up, and down, 

Blue eyes and brown — 

Each drawn, as tho' a magnet drew 

Brown eyes to blue! 

Seeking unconsciously to find 

How deep, how true 

The thought, the heart, the soul, behind 

Both brown and blue. 

A. D. 1919 

A TORN and reeking world. 
Banners of hate unfurled. 
Murder and lust and fear! 
Is the end near? 

Rapine, blood, and unrest. 
Life, and death, unblest. 
Filled with pitfall and snare! 
And God is — where? 



Silver Wings 



13 



SEA-BIRDS 
To L. T. 

Sea-bird, sea-bird, flying south; 

Tell me, have you seen my love. 

Far beyond the river's mouth — 

Flying northward? 

You are leaving ice and snow. 

Far behind you. 

Summer's joys again for you — 

If no foes find you! 

He I love, on swifter wings. 

Soars and dips, and dipping lower — 

Outward, on the tide, he swings — 

Skims the Ocean, shore to shore! 

Sea-bird, sea-bird, were I you. 

In upper air, 

My wings should cut, the bonny blue. 

True flyer he who meets you there — 

And flings a challenge; Sea-bird, he — 

Can also beat you on the sea! 

Where the Ocean flings, its spray — 
Seek out those " Golden Wings," and 

say — 
" Brave brother Gold, wings — 
You who dare — 
The Ocean skim. 
Defy the air! 

Conqueror, tho you live, or die! 
Fare you forth, to Victory!" 

Note: 
The Seaplane Service Badge is Golden 

Wings. 

PERQUISITES 
By an outsider 

A little child; bright-eyed with smooth 

round cheek. 
And happy, eager, laughing, loving lips. 
Bestowing kisses! 

Soft, clinging arms and dimpled finger tips. 
Ah! well, such blisses — 
Are rightfully, but childhood's perquisites. 
And yet tonight 

Some imp within, cried out with envy — 
Of your childish right! 



FLEETING 

The down on a butterfly's wing. 

Is not a more fleeting thing — 

Than the God-given look, in a child's dear 

eyes. 
Ere fools or brutes, have made them wise. 



SWEETHEART 

A HEART of gold, 

A tongue of flame! 

Not beauty, tho' in beauty's name, 

I greet you. 

For you *ve a grace. 

Of form and face — 

And when you care to win the race — 

There 's none to beat you! 

A will to conquer, and command, 

A brain to plan and dare. 

No coward you! 

But bold and true — 

Tho' you deny me there. 

That 's Nowl 

But long ago a baby dear — 

I held within my arms, 

And tried to fashion names for her — 

That would describe, her charms! 

In the golden meshes of her hair — 

My heart she held a slave. 

And my life lay in her tiny hands 

To forfeit or to save! 

* 41 * * Ht « 

Sweetheart of mine, 

Within your eyes, 

So loving deep and true — 

I sent my soul a-seeking. 

To find the real you. 

And having found you, know you — 

In spite of " War's alarms " 

For the very selfsame, " Sweetheart " 

That loved a mother's arms. 

Long ago! 



H 



Silver JF i n g s 



THE DREAM CHILD 

E LITTLE snow-flake, paler than the dawn — 
Ere coming day had stained its virgin face! 
A small frail spark of life, that flickered low. 
Upon my breast you lay, so white, so 

still— ^ ^ 

I did not dare to weep, hardly to breathe — 
Tho' down my cheek, unchecked the tears 

would fall. 
And all the world, its gladness and its 

fears — 
Were held for me, within that room so 

small. 

****** 

A flower face, so sweetly, white and pink — 
With eyes as dark and lustrous, as the 

night — 
You stand and smile, at me — under your 

bonnet's brim! 
And in your cheeks, the little dimples 

play — 
Dimples that laugh at me, from every 

place, 
Knees, hands, and all your lovely baby 

form — 
My little snow-flake, now to childhood 

grown! 
With all of childhood's charm and win- 
some, grace — 

****** 

Still like a sweetly blooming, lovely rose — 
The color flushing pinkly o'er her cheek — 
My tall shy girl, a smile upon her lips, 
She stands and looks at me — the little 

dimples still, 
On her sweet face are playing " hide and 

seek " — 
And in her eyes, as dark as deepest pools, 
Still lives the child's dear look, of trust, 

of purity! 
Still in her heart, the simple old time 

love — 
Of birds and flowers, and every living 

thing — 
Each one a gift, to her, from heaven above 
From God himself, from whom, all pure 

joys spring! 



MY SON 

A TINY, helpless, new-born babe, 

Within my arms, he lies — 

And heaven is here on earth for me — 

Held in his wondering eyes — 

A year or two my bonnie boy. 

Tosses his golden curls, 

A sturdy lad, (his father thinks) 

His hair too like a girl's! 

A little while, and three or four — 

Dimpled of hand and knee 

Such loving little hands, and lips — 

My darling has for me. 

Working and playing, years go by — 

My boy is still my own, 

A slender youth, with dear dark eyes. 

Nearly to manhood grown. 

So young is he, in many ways — 

My baby still he seems. 

But he can wake to sudden life. 

In the manhood of my dreams. 

He 's big, and strong and wonderful. 

He fills my heart with pride — 

But I must share my splendid man — 

For now he takes a bride! 

Dear tiny child, dear boy of mine — 

I hold you in my heart — 

No wife, no bride, not anything. 

Can tear our love apart. 

And always in my heart a prayer, 

Is ever night and day, 

" God keep my boy, from war and death. 

Nor force his hand to slay! " 

I would not have him shirk his " bit " 

Nor turn his face away — 

But " God in mercy end this strife! " 

Is ever what I pray. 

So may I keep my boy with me — 

Nor see deep in his eyes, 

The memory of hideous things, 

That ever lives, and lies 

A leaden cloud to hide away, the 

The glory of the sun — 

And kill the joyousness of life. 

Till all its^days are done! 



Silver JV i n g s 



15 



TOGETHER 

Dear heart, do you remember, 

How far away, it seems! 

A thousand ages — long ago, 

Off in a land of dreams! 

We sat (a lover and his lass) — 

And watched an earthquake, rage — 

With terrifying truthfulness — 

Across a painted stage. 

The tears, were in your eyes " Dear heart" 

And they were on my cheek — 

Our hearts were torn with tragedies. 

We could not even speak — 

But hand in hand, we sat and gazed — 

Until the play was done! 

And now, we're watching, Life, go by — 

As the years race, swiftly on. 

This play we saw begin " Dear heart " 

Held much for you and me — 

Now night is closing in " Dear Heart " 

Still, hand in hand, may we 

Watch till it draws, unto the end — 

Together, till Time sounds, " Lights out!" 

And present, past, and future, blend, 

Forever — without fear or doubt. 

FOREBODING 

Look to the East, my Antony, and see, 
The flaming sunset, fill the quivering sky! 
As your love fills the quivering soul of me. 
Just now, " Oh long desired " I heard you 

^igh' . • , „ 

At our first meeting, " Long admired! 

you breathed — 
And then I saw, your eyes — and in them 

lay — 
While smiles your strong lips wreathed, 
The same bold look, that holds me here 

today! 
Beloved! — pillowed on your heart, my 

head — 
I turn my eyes towards the glowing sky, 
Why shrinks my soul, with overwhelming 

dread? 
As on your lips, and in your eyes I see. 
The growing weakness, born of love for 

me. 



How smooth and slow, beneath our gilded 
prow. 

Glides the dark Nile! Emblazoned here 
and there — 

With gorgeous colorings, of red and gold, 
and now — 

One long embrace, my Antony; Oh, hold 
me near 

Your heart, beloved! This our last fare- 
well — 

No more to lie upon your breast, so dear — 

Osiris, calls us both, to heaven or hell! 



VOTERS! 

One man, one motor — Let him mote! 
Watch him, when woman has the vote! 



LOVE IS KING 

Love warms my heart, 

As the tropic morn 

Is warmed, when the sun 

Flames up at dawn. 

And flings across the radiant sky. 

The magic of his wizardry. 

Lord over night, a conqueror, he, 

As love, is King and Lord of me. 

Love fills my soul. 
As the Ocean fills 
Its wondrous bed, 
From shore to shore, 
Driving all else resistlessly, 
Before its overwhelming power. 
So Love alone, is King of me. 
Supreme in His sovereignty. 

Do not boast of your immunity, where 

Love is concerned, 
For if Love has passed you by, you may 

be sure that there 
Is some serious defect in you, mentally, 

morally, or physically. 



i6 



Silver Wings 



ROSE ON THE WALL 

Rose on the wall, hanging so high, 

I must possess you 

Tho' I should die! 

Rose, rose, rose on the wall! 

Beauty — you flaunt it. 
Flinging afar. 
Sweetness, to vaunt it, 
Splendid lone star! 
Gorgeous, uplifted. 
High over all! 
My Rose you must be — 
Rose on the wall! 

Destined by Fate, 

To lie on my heart. 

Shall fear of Death's terrors 

Keep us apart? 

You may hang high. Rose on the wall. 

Win you I will, tho' I should fall! 

Imperious, exquisite, 

Far, far, above — 

Mine — by the right 

Of predestined love! 

Upward I reach — what tho' I give all? 

Rose, rose, rose, on the wall! 

At last! — on my bosom. 

Where I have pressed. 

The thorns that surround you — 

Lie here, and rest! 

Through all eternity, 

MINE — on my breast! 

Will I wear you forever, tho' dynasties 

fall. 
Rose, rose, MY rose on the wall! 

TEMPERAMENTAL 

See how with tender touch, Eolus stirs 
The fluttering gauze of Spring's light 

draperies 
And like a sleeping infant's fleeting smile, 
Ripples the lake from quiet shore to shore; 
Ripples that come, then vanish, to return 

once more. 



And now more sportive grown, with 

stronger breath. 
He tosses fairy blossoms, here and there. 
Flings far the waving tendrils of June's 

hair 
And twists her rosy garments round her 

feet! 
Filling the summer night with attar sweet. 

Then feigning wrath, the blusterer turns 

on me. 
Adding a danger signal to his warning 

note; 
Flings back my breath into my gasping 

throat. 
Roars in my ears and brings me to my 

knee 
Ere torn and trembling, I have time to 

flee. 

Strips all the trees, until they leafless 

stand. 
The ripples too, to flying foam he churns. 
Drives in my face an icy sleet, that burns. 
Earth rocks before him, nature bends and 

reels 
And my heart faints before the awe it 

feels. 

But rage, and roar, and tear me as he will, 
I love him and his furious wooing still. 
For soon I know, his softly pleading sigh. 
Will barely stir the leaves against the sky! 



TOO DEAR 

Life! What is Life? 
Penance, and prayer. 
Bright dreams that fade, 
Hopes, dissolved in air! 
Love pure and priceless. 
Pearls, cast before swine — 
As assets worthless. 
But lees of wine! 
A heart — Oh, no, thank you, 
A stone for mine — I 



Silver Wings 



17 



AND SHOULD YOU KNOW 

And should you know, at some far distant 

day, 
How much I love you. 
How oft with you I 've longed to stray — 
Far from the hard frequented way. 
On which we meet from day to day, 
Great trees above you — 
Where I might gently take your hand. 
To lead you into fairyland, 
A Paradise in Maryland — 
Nor fear to show you 
The treasures, both of us might find — 
Within the other's heart and mind — 
When thoughts, and words, and lips, are 

kind. 
And learn to know you — 
I think altho' you pass me by — 
With just a smile of lip or eye, 
I 'd like tho' you may wonder why — 
My heart to show — you! 



A SOLILOQUY 

How the wind rustles the dry stems, 

tonight — 
Of tall papyrus in the river bed! 
They rattle as the dry bones might. 
Of men, the Pharaohs, once had led! 
How short a time ago it seems, that he, 
My conquering Antony, was by my side; 
And the full flood, flowed under me. 
Of the old Nile's great tide! 
As in the gilded barge we dreaming, lay — 
My head upon his breast! 
And then his chariot, stood before my 

gate. 
Oh, Antony! — you gazed at me, beneath 
Your brows, and said, " I 'm old, my 

Queen, and Fate 
May soon destroy this earth-bound, 

human sheath; 
That once was Antony, but my spirit, 

giving 
Itself to you: and through all ages living 
Seeking again in every age its mate. 
Proves Love triumphant over Death and 
Fate," 



ALOES 

And every hundred years the aloes, 

bloom — 
Each blossom time, a hundred years apart, 
Oh, lovely aloes in a smiling garden fair! 
So love each hundred years, wakes in a 

heart — 
And seeking, seeking — sometimes finds a 

mate! 
More often lonely, and the sport of Fate, 
It wanders thro' the years; or all too late. 
Finds of itself, the perfect counterpart. 
Condemned, again, a hundred years, to 

sleep — 
Ere it once more, its trysting time can 

keep! 
Awake, O perfect hour, within this heart 
Ere fate's stern hand, shall tear our lives 

apart! 

THE UNIVERSITY GATE 

Bonn on the Rhine, Germany, 1877 
An Incident 

A DARK haired youth, plain featured, sal- 
low, slim! 

He stood and gazed at me, and I, at him! 

Within the opening of a narrow gate. 

His eyes, (as corn-flowers, in the grass) 
were blue — 

They seemed not aught, but gentle, kind 
and true. 

Why did I know, when all at last too late. 

That in these slender, girlish hands, there 
lay — 

The fate of empires! That the world 
today — 

Would in those hands, collapse — disinte- 
grate! 

And had I known — another Corday, I — 

Could I have struck the blow, that bade 
him die! 

Have lent my arm to meet the ends of 
Fate? 

I know not! This alone, I truly know — 

Forever might my hand have laid him 
low. 

As to my side, so close he pressed. 

When I passed through the gate! 



i8 



Silver Wings 



WINTER TWILIGHT 

The cold white moon, hangs bright, and 

high— 
And frostv stars, fill all the sky, 
No roses bloom, upon the wall. 
They lie beneath the snow's white pall — 
The frozen roads ring to my tread. 
And all the singing birds have fled — 
But still my heart, sings soft and low — 
I love you so! I love you so! 

The summer days, were bright and fair. 

Bird voices filled the balmy air, 

So warm and soft the languorous night. 

Bathed in the glowing, radiance bright. 

Of summer moon's, mysterious power. 

But oh, I know in this lone hour, 

My heart keeps warm through cold and 

snow — 
For still it sings, I love you so! 

QUI DAM? 

Position for this one, 

Exemption for that — 

A niche that the other can fill — 

Widely beneficent, 

Almost omnipotent — 

I wonder his name is n't Bill! 

This one adores him! 
That one — deplores him! 
A joker from A unto Z. 
If you could blink at him. 
What would you think of him? 
You who, at least, know me! 

Some shake in their shoes. 

When he has the blues, 

And his frown takes the place of a rod. 

When he has a grouch — 

My goodness — Oh! — Ouch! 

Don't wait for a wink or a nod. 

And so we kow-tow to him. 

Smile on him, bow to him — 

And give him at least, his due — 

The hand that can bless 

Can chastise, or caress — 

Is the one that the world will woo. 



TO BUBASTIS 

My blue Bubastis! — sitting here today — 
I move my hand, to where you used to lie. 
As close to me, as I would let you stay, 
And there you slept, so safe and warm — 

while I 
Would read, or write, or stroke your silky 

fur. 
And make you purr! 

Dear loving heart! Your splendid golden 

eyes — 
Sought mine, so full of love, and trust in 

me — 
You always looked so wonderfully wise — 
As tho' into the past, those eyes could see! 
Or, out into the realms, (if that might be,) 
Of dim futurity! 

The future! Ah, how might I, could I, tell! 
Altho' reproachfully, you looked that 

day — 
That when I saw you next, the Gates of 

Hell- 
Could hold, no crueller torture, as you 

lay — 
Hate's victim — Forced your harmless, 

life to pay — 
That summer's day! 

How piteously, your eyes implored, in 

that dark hour — 
The help, that ne'er had failed to come 

before — 
So I — I used, the gracious God-given 

power. 
And to death's peaceful sleep, flung wide 

the door! 
Upon, a fairer, friendlier, safer shore — 
Oh, peaceful sleep, for evermore! 

THE OPTIMIST 

Tomorrow is another day! All hail, 

tomorrow! 
Should today, prove very sad, 
Each turn dealt to us be bad — 
There's the chance we may be glad — 

tomorrow. 



Silver Wings 



19 



A BIT OF THE BROGUE 

A crowd of girls! all fair, light-hearted, 

sweet — 
With youth and laughter, dancing eyes 

and feet, 
But one there is, than all the rest more 

fair; 
Blue-eyed, the raven's wing would match 

her hair. 
She speaks, and on her rosy, gaily laugh- 

*"S lips , r T 1 J 

Liquid and sweet the tongue ot Ireland 

trips. 
As dew, and honey, from some flower 
heart drips. 

Search your own soul unsparingly, 
Ere passing judgment upon others; 
For therein are memories of many hidden 
deeds and thoughts. 



ALONE 

The sunset's flaming glory— upon the 

water lies. 
Reflection, of the gorgeousness 
That fills the western skies, 
And mirrored in the lake's clear pool— 
The trees have cast their shadow cool. 
Each tiny blade, and leaflet near— 
Is doubled in the waters clear. 
And liquid notes of rnusic fall. 
As robin answers robin's call — 
Swiftly, the shadows change, and deeper he. 
The color fades, the glory leaves the sky. 
The day is ended, and one gleaming star- 
Looks down in silent mystery from afar! 

Where is that other soul, that once with 

mine — 
Walked 'midst this loveliness, so near 

divine? 
Answered each thought, and felt each 

mystic lure — 
Of Nature's beauty — tender heart and 

pure 
As nature is! How sad, each must alone. 
Travel a starlike pathway of its own! 



TO THE LITTLE ONES COMING 
FROM SCHOOL 

Dear little ones, with shining eyes. 

And lightly tripping feet. 

Who smile at me half shyly. 

As I pass down the street; 

If you could know, how in my heart, 

I love you! — love you all! 

Dear boys and girls who greet me, 

You would not pass at all — 

But crowd into my open arms, 

And cling about my knees. 

For I know that the " Kingdom of 

Heaven " 
Is just of such as these! 

HOW MANY MORE? 

At death's door. 
Of loves a score! 
Before you pass — 
How many more? 

THE GIFT 

What was it then that you gave to me — 
That day as we rode along — 
A lift and a gift, a wonderful gift— 
The gift of youth, and song. 

You cared not a jot, if I had it or not— 
The fact is you did not know — 
But you opened wide, a lantern slide. 
And gave me a picture show! 

And the song and the picture, that came 

that day — 
Filled my life with the zest of youth— 
The hardest of work, seems only play, 
I am telling you nothing but truth, 

I want you to know, tho' I can't tell you 

so — 
(You 're elusive as desert ram — ) 
In the moment or two, that I spent with 

you— 
You gave me my youth again. 



20 



Silver Wings 



TANJORE 

Against the purple, starlit sky; how 

minaret and tower, 
Gleam softly white, and radiant, in mid- 
night's mystic hour! 
Upon each lacey wonder, transparently 

aglow — 
The light falls like the starlight, upon the 

fabled snow! 
Oh, gorgeous walls encrusted, with jewels, 

flecked with gold! 
Into the slavery within, my body has 

been sold — 
But I have looked in Love's dear eyes, 

and I am his alone. 
'Tho my body may be captive, my spirit 

will have flown. 
Within this gilded litter, outside, the 

Palace gate — 
While the silken curtains gently stir, the 

signal I await — 
The signal, that shall call me, to the foot- 
stool of the King! 
There, to await his pleasure, if 1 should 

favor bring! 
I hear the distant trampling of steeds, 

within their stalls — 
And the trumpeting of elephants, as each 

to the other calls — 
The clash of spears, the fall of feet — a 

sudden trumpet blare! 
Shouting, and then the open gate, the 

flaming torches flare. 
My litter, swaying gently, now swiftly 

moves along — 
Thro' prostrate, and kneeling slaves — a 

great, obsequious throng! 

And now within a small dim room, I 

stand — 
Who is this, meets me? — reaches forth a 

hand? 
Oh, wondrous night! My heart will break 
— 't is He! 
My Love; my own; the king and lord of 

me! 
O'ercome by love, for love has stolen all, 
Supine, resistless, at his feet I fall 



A willing sacrifice — while in my heart 

there sings 
A glorious refrain — like to some bell that 

rings 
Within a temple lifted to the sky, 
" My Love is mine, and His alone, am I ! " 
Then strong arms lifted me, and on his 

breast I lay! 
And as he holds me there, I hear him say — 
"Look up. Beloved! I would see your 

face — 
I am your humblest chattel in this place! " 
And now my face, he gently draws to his, 
And my lips feel, the glory of his kiss. 



INCANTATION 

Oh, Love awake, awake! and as before, 
Send the blood pulsing thro' my veins 

once more, 
Bring to my eyes, the fire of radiant 

youth — 
Tint my pale cheeks, and make them soft 

and smooth — 
Bring lightness to my feet, as in those 

days. 
When scarce they seemed, to press the 

flowery ways — 
And trod with dancing step, a joyous 

path; 
For Fate — unstinted gives to him that 

hath. 
Once more my heart would feel Love's 

throbbing bliss — 
Once more my lips would tremble at 

Love's kiss — 
And in my ears his voice, again should 

plead — 
His cause, already won — nor should he 

need, 
As now a last impassioned, wild appeal. 
To him, to give, what I once more, would 

feel- 
That Love is all — the world indeed well 

lost! 
And winning. Love — what need to count 

the cost! 



'\ 



Silver Wings 



21 



LOTUS BUDS 

The lotus buds are lying, on thy waters, 

oh, Tanjore! 
And the longing of the night-wind is 

sighing, down the shore. 
Why do the moonlit waters, seem to bear 

upon their breast. 
In rise and fall, my Love's white limbs — 

while a fever of unrest 
Seethes thro' my blood — Thro' all the 

hours I see — 
Her lovelit eyes — each winged thought, 

brings to me — 
Those passion maddened moments, lying 

broken at her feet. 
While the Bulbul, sang his love songs, 

where the stream and river meet! 
And my heart calls to the lotus, to the 

night-wind, and the sea, 
To give again, lest I should die — my 

loved one back to me. 



GUIDING STAR 

In the eye of the wind. 

In the teeth of the gale. 

Steer, steer, for the star. 

Straight for the light, that never will fail. 

For we 're nearing home once more! 

Steer straight for the star, 

Tho' the waves be high. 

And I hear the surf on the shore, 

Steer for the light, tho' we we live or die 

Amid the tempest's roar! 

Dear star in the night, my guiding light! — 

No other hope have I! 

Oh, soft white breast. 

Where my head shall rest 

Sweet lips so warm and red! 

Keep the star tonight in the window 

bright. 
Lest the deep should be my bed. 
Steer! steer! for the tiny spark. 
That shines out over the sea. 
There, life and warmth, and my true 

love's arms. 
Are waiting to welcome me! 



A TOAST 

Fill the cup to the brim! 
Now drink to him. 

Who lives — tho' his years are not few! 
Then why not to her — 
Who our pulses can stir! 
At forty, or forty-two? 

YESTERDAYS 

Where are the yesterdays that once were 

ours? 
Dear days, so glad and gay. 
So full of sunshine, and of flowers — 
When all the months were May! 

And even now 't is yesterday, 
That ever seems most fair — 
But life is always, just today, 
And yesterdays — not there! 

ASHES OF ROSES 

Something's wrong with the world! 

The gladness of summer 

Has fled, and all brightness 

Seems gone from the land. 

Loved faces are missing. 

Gay laughter is silenced. 

And oh, how I long. 

For the clasp of one hand. 

Something's wrong with the world. 

And ashes of roses. 

Are all that is left 

Of the summer's sweet dreams — ■ 

A handful of rose leaves; 

A voice full of music; 

Only mem'ries to tell us, 

How hopeless all seems! 

Something's wrong with the world. 
That / should be hopeless. 
That Life should be wanting 
In beauty and joy! 
Come back summer sunshine! 
Come again, scented roses; 
Fill my heart beloved voice, 
Such sweets do not cloy. 



22 



Silver PF i n g s 



REASSURED 

Each roseate morn with golden promise 

rife. 
Slipped down the paths, of summer's 

scented ways — 
Each perfect day, filled with the joy of life, 
Merged in the stream of swiftly, passing 

days — 
On to an unseen, unknown, all unheeded 

goal! 

Still each glad day, the world but seemed, 
more fair! 

And yet; oh; smiling, glittering, dew- 
drowned morn — 

What stab of sudden fear, what chilling, 
cold despair 

Strikes at my heart — What warning, 
devil-born — 

Wakes from its slumbers, in my shudder- 
ing soul! 

Sudden — the stream of golden days is 

done — 
No more with love's all radiant presence, 

filled— 
The swiftly passing hours, from sun, to 

sun — 
Entranced shall move — Some evil thing 

has entered in and killed, 
All that was life; stolen my joy from me! 

Or do I dream ? Once more the days are 

fair- 
Once more hope lives, and love is all my 

own. 
In very truth — I find again his presence 

everywhere — 
The fear and doubt was mine, and mine 

alone — 
Oh, love, my love! faithful — eternally! 

THE LONG WALL 

The long, long wall, ivy and rose beclad, 
What dreams of love! what meetings fond 

and glad, 
Upon the way that runs so closely by! 



What handclaspings! — Here all unan- 
swered, why — 
I ask — should it be that I lose? 
All hope! that friendly nature, should to 

me refuse 
The joyous comradeship, that I have 

elsewhere known. 
It seems as tho' when on that path I tread, 
I leave all love, all life behind me — and the 

dead, 
Dead hopes and joys, dead loves and fears, 
Crowd round me from the bygone years, 
Halting my footsteps, tearing at my 

heart — 
Till all the world of which I am a part. 
Seems full of empty husks, of idle words, 
Ambitions unfulfilled; dark thoughts in 

hordes 
Push fiercely in, and follow close behind, 
To weary me in body, heart, and mind — 
Now tell me, you, who know the path I 

mean, 
What spirit haunts it. What the power 

unseen ? 

SPRING COMES 

Through the woodlands. Spring is sweep- 
ing, 
Tinting them a tender green — 
Laccy fringes of her mantle 
Touch the stems, and hang between — 
She leaves them hanging; magic maker. 
Dropped from her o'erflowing store. 
Misty as a summer moonbeam. 
Floating o'er a southern shore. 
Spring! the wonder of your coming. 
Thrills me newly through, and through. 
Love and mating, song and sunshine. 
Glad! my heart shall welcome you! 

GOIJA 

Blue are her eyes as summer skies. 
Love's laughter on her lips. 
And the beauty of the wild rose clings, 
To her dainty finger tips! 

Youth like health is never fully appre- 
ciated until it is lost. 



Silver JV i n g s 



23 



YESTERDAY AND TODAY 

Yesterday, the skies were dark. 
Today, my heart sings like the lark! 
Yesterday was cold and drear — 
Today love's warmth, is in the air! 
Last night, I was crazed with fear — 
Now — life again is sweet and fair 
Say where can the difference be? 
My dear love has smiled at me! 



TO 






As spark to tinder, so your mind in mine — 
Kindled the fire of genius, gift divine! 

QUANTUM SUFFICIT! 

The world seems empty, purposeless, and 

cold, 
And suddenly, my heart and I are old ! 
I would not longer wear Life's faded 

crown. 
For I have had my full, full share, pressed 

down — 
And running over, of the things that are! 
Love, Power, Happiness, Sorrow, death 

disease! 
Wealth, poverty; The joy of living, and 

the lees — 
Of pleasure's cup, filled to the brim ! High 

as a star 
My hopes have soared! Despair has flung 

them down. 
Now let me go; Life holds no more for me. 
My spirit cries enough! It fain would see — 
Some other world than this! Adventures 

new — 
A higher plane, and other work to do, 
Or if perchance this can not, may not,be — 
Then sleep and rest, beneath some spread- 
ing tree. 
For all that's left! The dear and friendly 

Earth — 
Shall keep me; till at last rebirth — 
Shall set once more my soaring spirit 

free — 
And give new worlds again to Love, and 

me! 



THE STREET 
Dante to Beatrice 

How full of life the new spring day! 
Joy and adventure seem to play, 
About my steps; each hidden turn 
May hold, undreamed of possibilities! 

The birds are singing, songs of happy love. 
And fluttering softly in the trees above, 
How full of surnmer's promise, soft, and 

warm — 
The Sun God's smile, cheers and revivi- 
fies! 

And then you passed, smileless, unseeing, 

cold — 
Why is the street so sudden dark, and 

bare? 
The birds seem dead, all j oy has fled — 
And a dark emptiness is everywhere! 



THE DAWNING 

Sing my heart, the glory of the dawning! 

Phoebus rises golden, from the sea! 

The world awakes; and the new summer's 

morning 
Flings all its scented sweetness over me! 

See how the little waves, in rapture 
trembling, 

Are rosy red, beneath his fiery glow. 

As Day, casts off, Night's somber cloak 
dissembling, 

To greet the Sun God! Waking Earth 
below — 

Stirs gently, for she still, is surely dream- 
ing, 

Of hidden things, that she, alone can 
know! 

Great God of day! How gorgeous is the 

waking! 
That brings you back to longing Earth 

and me — 
In the new day, all other loves forsaking, 
I worship Phoebus — rising from the sea! 



24 



Silver Wings 



LOVE SPURNED 

" No hate hell holds, as hot as woman 

spurned! " 
So runs the tale — 

And Love's warm heart, to hatred turned. 
May sometimes fail, 

To feel that ofttimes, fearful of her power. 
Full many a man. 
May turn away, in Love's most perfect 

hour — 
While yet he can! 

WHO IS PAN? 

And who is Pan? 

You'd like to know, you say — 

Why — Pan is Pan — 

The same who used to play. 

Upon his pipes to me! 

In that dear far off day 

Beneath our trysting tree. 

He found me here, as young and gay — 

At heart, as when I used to be — 

A dancing Nymph, so wild and free! 

Oh, no! I can not, dare not tell 

You who is Pan, 

For you might say — 

You knew him well — 

As just a man! 

PAN PIPES 
Upon the shores of ancient Greece, 
Pan wrought his pipes of reed — 
A golden voice stole o'er the land. 
And Love — was all its creed. 
A powerful human head was Pan's — 
But for his sins, the curse — 
A goat-like body bound his limbs 
In brutish ways, or worse! 
A little maid, with tender eyes 
And heart untried, but true — 
Trod gaily those enchanted shores — 
When all the world was new! 
No harm feared she — A dainty maid — 
So slim and soft, and white — 
Dancing, with rosy tinted toes. 
Where crept the evening light! 
There roamed no Pagan Nymph, more 
fair — 



The depths of forest green — 

And Pan enraptured, thought the child 

The loveliest thing he *d seen. 

So soft he blew; the liquid notes 

Of love, she paused to hear — 

Thro' dancing, light and deepening, 

shade — 
She followed without fear. 
And soon within his arms she lay — 
Deep in that forest dim! 

Today, the same sweet notes Pan blows. 

Upon his pipes of reed — 

The golden voice is calling yet 

And some still give it heed! 

So sweet, so free, across the land, 

Its echoes sweep to me — 

I can hear the Satyrs calling 

To the Nymphs, beneath the tree — 

And the Pan-pipes, wooing — wooing. 

In the moonlight, by the sea. 

KISS ME SUMMER! 

Kiss me Summer, kiss me sweet! 
I am ever at your feet, 
All your rosy beauties lie 
Bare to me, 'twixt earth and sky! 

Sing sweet Summer, sing to me! 
From every bush, and every tree. 
Tuneful voices fill the air, 
Summer! Summer 's everywhere! 

Blended with the roses hue. 
Lilies, deck the water blue. 
Golden sunshine, scented air! 
Summer, you are sweet and fair! 

Not a hint upon your breath. 
Of old Winter's frozen death, 
See! I still am at your feet. 
Linger with me. Summer sweet! 

ROSES ON THE WALL! 

Roses on the wall. 
In the sky above 
Stars, and the night, 
The night and Love, 
Love over all! 
And roses on the wall! 



1 



Silver Wings 



25 



TO PAN 

The day is closing, night is drawing near — 
And softly piping — Again Pan's voice I 

hear. 
Whispering, so gently to my listening 

ear — 
" Follow; Love follow! " 

Oh, Pan! I hear you softly, calling me — 
To our old tryst, beneath the forest tree — 
But only in dear dreams, again I see — 
The days of long ago! 

I may not come to you, nor if I could — 
Dance to your piping, thro' the moonlit 

wood — 
Or watching stand, where I once waiting 

stood. 
In the moon's pale glow. 

I hear the echo of your voice today, 
I hear it often, but I may not stray — 
Adown those wild glad paths again, nor 

stay 
Where the Pan pipes, blow! 

Lest even watching, wild, and glad, and 

free— 
You draw my longing heart, from out of 

me. 
To the old tryst, beneath the forest tree 
That we both know! 

As diamonds on the neck of an Indian 
Maharanee; so do little acts of courtesy, 
stand out, in the dull monotony of middle 
age! 



PLEASE! 

Your hand, oh, Mr. Hoover please do 

stay. 
With " Heatless. Meatless. Wheatless!" 
You are so very near the end of " eatless." 
I fear, (I 'm most ashamed,) you '11 say, 
Our garments must go seatless! 



THE NEW DAY 

Dance Nymphs! dance in the moonlight. 

Dance once more for me! 

For there's a new day dawning, 

And few there '11 be who see 

Again, the Satyrs frolicking, 

With the Nymphs, beneath the tree! 

While Pan is piping gaily. 

On the shores of Attic's Sea! 

Gone are the gods of ancient days, 

Lost in the new day's dawn! 

The Nymphs who danced so merrily. 

With Satyr and with Faun, 

But now and then, out of past days, 

A joyous heart is born — 

Whose eyes can penetrate the blaze — 

That lights the modern morn! 

Whose ears are tuned, to Pan's sweet lays. 

And still can hear his voice — 

When on his pipes he softly plays. 

And in that power rejoice! 

AMICUS VITAE SOLATIUM 

(A Friend is Life's Consolation) 

I WAS alone, my tired feet. 

Trod wearily the empty street, 

When right before my aching eyes, 

I glimpsed the gates of Paradise! 

Then, looking in his face I saw, 

A friend stood at the open door. 

A friend whose strong hand reached for 

mine — 
With clasp so warm — that like new wine — 
It filled my heart with joy divine. 
Time was not — years had rolled away. 
And golden youth was mine that day — 
Then Fate, passed by and closed the 

door — 
My dream was gone, to come no more! 

The dream was fair, as such dreams are — 

I wept that it was ended — 

Then Fate (a strange, uncertain jade), 

A wonderful amendment made — 

By giving me till life shall end. 

That perfect gift, a faithful friend! 



26 



Silver Wings 



A PAGAN WISH 

Brightly on the river gleams the moon- 
light, 

Chasing the little ripples to the shore — 

Where Pan is lying piping in the rushes — 

Calling — calling on his wonder pipes, once 
more! 

Oh, to dance again, where lies the moon- 
light, 

Tripping scented grass with flying feet! 

Oh, to watch the breeze among the leaf- 
lets, 

Tossing all the tender blossoms sweet! 

Joyous! — my soul Pan's drawing from 
me — 

His golden voice is throbbing thro' the 
night! 

Again, Love's arms are folded close around 
me — 

To keep me soft, and warm till morning 

light- 
So — let me sleep, forever — knowing 
nothing, 

But the glory of life's joyous love and 
youth! 

Let me sleep — where, Pan pipes by the 
river — 

Where bloom Narcissus and the Dragon's 
Tooth! 



THE FAIRY PRINCE 

Oh, long ago, so long ago, 

I once was a child like you. 

And I dreamed day dreams, of a fairy 

Prince, 
Fair haired, with eyes of blue! 

I knew he would come, that wonderful 
Prince! 

For my nurse had told me so. 

My nurse, who seemed to know every- 
thing. 

That children want to know! 

And did he come, my fairy Prince? 
Who filled my dreams by day? 
Oh, children dear, I can not tell. 
But I think, perhaps, he may! 

I knew his face but not his name. 

In those days of long ago. 

And he who came to me, was not the same. 

That 's why I do not know'. 

He was faithful and true, and he loved me 

well, 
As everyone's Prince should do — 
But don't you see why I never can tell 
For his eyes are black, not blue! 



SPRINGTIME FROM MY WINDOW 

Lovely, dainty, tender green — 

Fine as filmiest lace I 've seen, 

A sprinkling of copper, here and there. 

And a bluish gray, that looks old and rare 

Pink as of flower gardens aflame. 

White — that would put a snowstorm to 

shame! 
And down by the edge of the clear blue 

lake— 
Where the ripples and shadows, play 

" give and take " 
A tiny child with a tousled head, 
And an innocent face — burnt rosy red, 
Is sitting and playing in careless joy, 
With the whole of the new-born earth, for 

a toy! 



THE SUN HAS NO GLORY 

I MAY sing of a bird, a flower, a tree — 
The moon on the river. 
The sun on the sea! 

Of love, or of sorrow, whatever my song, 
'T is you that I think of, the whole day 
long! 

The sun has no glory, no sweetness, the 

night 
Life's j oy has departed. 
And no more the light 
Of the moon, on the river, the sun on the 

sea. 
Unless I am with you, brings gladness to 

me. 



Silver Wings 



27 



PHANTASIES 

Holla! Holla! Holla! mon gar, 

What would I not have given, when today, 

I saw you driving, racing by. 

To shout this greeting, and to say — 

Holla, holla, holla, mon gar! 

You had a smile upon your face. 

And passed me at a swinging pace, 

I wished that I was in your place! 

A friend, a comrade, ah, how few there are, 
And yet if we should meet upon a star, 
I might perhaps call to you, " He, Holla! 
Holla, Holla, Holla! Oh, He mon gar! 



LOVE AND YOUTH 

Come to me Love, come thro' the mist. 

That decks the early morn. 

And hides the river, still unkist 

By the sun; that like the dawn 

Your presence, may my being fill 

With love each day new-born! 

How radiantly the rosy light. 

Creeps thro' the fading grey? 

Come love and change my long dark night. 

To Love's own roseate day! 

The thrilling bird-notes fill the air, 

The mists have rolled away. 

You 're coming thro' the dewy grass, 

With dancing steps so gay! 

And I will whisper in your ear. 

The whole of Life's great truth. 

And the golden morn shall wake once 

more. 
To the voice of Love and Youth. 

Daring often succeeds where caution 
would be an utter failure. 

The calmest exterior often hides the most 
passionate nature. 

Youth is merely a matter of tempera- 
ment, but wrinkles are the death of 
sentiment. 



OUT OF THE MIRE 

I SING of him, who casting off the bonds. 
That once have held him captive, bound 

and tied, 
Shall rise, and conquer self, and win again, 
A name — that 's honored, far and wide — 
Unto the farthest, the most distant star 
There is great joy, when he who falls, 

shall rise 
Out of the mire. The word fling near and 

" He 's born anew, of whom 't was said: 
' He dies! ' " 

A RECIPE 

Take flame of fire, glean the snows 
From mountain tops, add one red rose; 
Mingle, set in slender mold, 
A silver chime of bells enfold. 
Take the wind, the restless deep. 
And all the dancing things that keep 
The leaflets waving in the breeze. 
Or softly move the tops of trees. 
That to her form, and to her face. 
May come the lithesome, dancing grace 
Of youth, and joy, and for her eyes. 
Take mountain pools wherein there lies 
The blue reflected from the skies; 
Then place a laughing sparkle there. 
Weave sunbeams for her flying hair. 
My Lady's ready for Love's mart. 
You say I have forgot her heart! 
In modern maid that has no part! 

Youth dreams, maturity strives, old age 

regrets. 
Time takes account, and we must pay our 

debts! 

SONG 

If you could know! If you could know! 
Your eager arms, would closely fold 
Me to your breast, nor loose their hold; 
If you could know! If you could know! 
My head would be upon your heart, 
No power, or Fate, us two, could part. 
Could you but know! Could you but 
know! 



28 



Silver JV i n g s 



THE TIME IS COMING 

The time is coming, when a skirt will be 
Naught but the badge of immorality, 
When those who wear it, hold the dubious 

power. 
Of ruling manhood, in his weakest hour! 

Give me the garb that sets a woman free. 
From sex enthrallment, so that she may 

Strong as is man, the God-given force 

within. 
To use unshackled, free to fight and win! 

No brainless fool is woman, more than he. 

Who claims such large superiority, 

Why fetter then, her limbs, or cramp her 

mind? 
Knowledge and freedom, she will surely 

find. 

And in that day, the day that is to be. 
When Womanhood, from bonds of sex set 

free. 
Shall help to guide, to rule, and, yes, to 

lead. 
Then shall Life, Love, and Peace be ours 

indeed! 



MY LADY 

A VERY gracious lady you — 

A gentlewoman thro' and thro' — 

From well poised head, to slender foot. 

So tall so graceful, sweet, and rare, 
You make me think of a garden fair, 
A page and lute! 

Peacocks and greyhounds, sycamore trees. 
And lilies swaying in the breeze — 
That stirs your hair! 

A smile so sweet, no spoken word — 
Or any music, I have heard — 
I can compare. 

To you when on your lips, there lies — 
The smile that trembles, in your eyes — 
My lady fair! 



ON THE ROAD TO CAMDEN 

(Sotto Voce) 

What ho! Sir Knight, 

This morn so bright. 

Oh, whither are you wending? 

I 'd like to change your lonesome plight, 

And share your journey, if I might, 

Riding down to Camden! 

What ho! my lord, 

Upon my word. 

You look so fine and fancy, 

I really wish that you would say, 

" Dear lady, 't is a lovely day, 

' Come ride down to Camden! ' " 

But the modern Knight, howe'er bedight. 
Or doughty as a chauffeur, 
Is not as ready with his steed. 
To succor womanhood in need, 
As once he was in Camelot. 

(Viva Voce) 
What did you say? 
A lovely day, 

And do jump in beside you, 
Oh, no, of course, I do not mind! 
I really think you 're very kind 
To spin me down to Camden. 

MINE 

Mine! My beloved! — 

Forever my own! 

Mine, while the ages, roll ceaselessly on, 

Mine — tho' stars fall, worlds be born, live 

and die — 
Mine — Mine alone, for eternity! 

MY LASSIE 

Cynthia's lovely, Doris sweet — 
Love lies bleeding at Kate's feet. 
Watch them all, as they pass by — 
My lassie has the laughing eye! 

To live, is to love, but in this sense, love 
embraces Charity, as well as Passion. 



Silver Wings 



29 



FAREWELL TO LOVE 

Gone is the light from the river. 

Fled is the sun from the sea — 

Dead is the sweet joy of living, 

For Love has departed from me! 

The birds call again, but I heed not, 

As they flit, in the evening light. 

In my heart all is dark and I need not, 

The darkness to tell me 't is night. 

Be still, oh my heart, cease thy longing, 

For the past, it can never return — 

Love is dead, or I know he 'd be waiting. 

At the altar, where his fires still burn. 



A MEETING 

The other day, I met Pan on the street. 
How did I know him! Did I see his, 

feet? 
Ah, no! Pan wore the outer garb of man! 
But I could tell, as all who know him 

can — 
Thro' all the ages, and the long gone 

years, 
He could not change his eyes or hide his 

ears. 



LOVE AT DAWN 

Come out and greet the dawn, with me- 

r m waiting here for you! 

I long to see your rosy feet — 

Wet with the glistening dew, 

I 've roses, for your hands and hair, 

I 've kisses for your lips. 

The early morn is sweet and fair — 

As your dainty finger tips. 

Come out my love, the birds await — 

Your coming with a song — 

Come thro' the mists of early morn. 

The night has been so long. 

Come out and watch the rose and gold 

Sweep thro' the quivering sky — 

And I will watch the dawning love. 

That springs within your eye. 

While roses, fair as any dawn. 

Your cheeks with blushes, dye. 



COMPENSATION 

After the drought, the rain — 
After the freeze, the thaw — 
And after rain comes sunshine — 
What can we want with more! 

VALENTINE'S DAY 1919 

Cupid, oh, you foolish child! 
Why is your aim so very wild — 
Not an arrow in the mark. 
Can it be you 're in the dark! 

Fix your arrows with more care. 
Take good aim, and hit right there — 
Time is flying, you should worry, 
I 'm the one that 's in a hurry! 

SUNSET ON THE RIVER 

Today, I saw the sun go down. 
Two balls of fire — above — below! 
One in the river seemed to drown. 
(The river that contrives, to throw 
Its glittering girdle, round the town!) 
The other floated overhead. 
And in my eyes its glory shed! 

Dear heart of me! Your soul and mine 
Were made for beauty as divine. 
For glory as entrancing, fair! 
As those two globes of splendour were — 
Living alone, if both are there — 
Each must the other's being share. 

And now behind the farthest rim 
Of trees, that shut the river in. 
That gorgeous, flaming, orb has sped! 
Dark lies the water! Overhead, 
The skies are hung, with silver mist. 
Lifeless the lake, erstwhile, sun kissed! 

WHEN? 

In the spring a young man's fancy 
Turns they say, to thoughts of love, 
Tell me Lydia, Kate, and Nancy! 
Just what time, an old man's fancy — 
To the same sweet goal, should move? 



JO 



Silver fV i n g s 



THREE WORDS 

Three words, " Je vous aime! " 

I heard them first. 

From the lips of a boy cadet. 

A child with dreams, full of romance — 

The very first time, we met! 

The boy — ? He died for his loved France! 

What — ! tears — ! Are my eyes wet? 

" Ich Hebe dich! " At a later day — 
The same three words I heard — 
Those wonderful three, but not for me, 
I could not answer a word — 
And he — The Kaiser's boyhood friend? 
What happened to him? You say! 
I heard that he died on Egypt's sands. 
In a duel he fought, one day! 

And you — , have you ever thought to 

yourself, 
What those three words, might mean — ? 
" I love you! " " I love you! " of all the 

world! 
And tho' hell shall intervene — 
Two souls, shall meet, and love one day. 
In a land, no eye, hath seen! 

When the effort needed is taken into 
consideration, how small a thing it is to 
give happiness, and yet, how most of us 
begrudge the gift. 



TO LOVE 

Oh! great begetter of all things that are, 
From smallest atom, to the farthest star — 
Love the Creator, Infinite, Divine, 
Whose are we then, if we should not be 
Thine! 

Peace, and the purple of the midnight sky, 
Are over all, Oh! wondrous One, draw 

nigh! 
The Altar waits, the fire burns pure and 

bright, 
Accept, Oh, Love, my sacrifice, tonight! 



AGAIN! 

Once more insistent, just one face — 

Is all that I can see. 

You, whose dear presence, lost so long, 

I thought had gone from me! 

Again your voice is throbbing, thro' the 

silent night, 
Stay with me now! — Stay till the dawn. 
Shall make the morning, light. 
Dear Pan, your voice, your tender voice! 
So vibrant, wondrous sweet — 
A world of lovelit melody, seems lying at 

my feet. 
The whole of love's fulfillment. 
All that my heart desires! 
But stay, oh Pan! What would you? 
Don't seek to kindle fires! 
So great that they must burn and sear. 
And may perchance destroy! 
For loving's always madness. 
Always madness, more than joy! 



CUPID'S JEST 

Cupid in a merry mood. 
Found two hearts, (perfectly good) 
And tied them both together, 
Threw them in an empty car. 
Saying pertly, " There you are! " 
Once in balmy weather! 
Impish Cupid! Did he know, 
Both the heads wore age's snow? 
She, fancies silver more than gold! 
He does n't know, she's growing old! 
Said Cupid, this is greater fun. 
Than anything, that I have done — 
Since the rising of the sun. 
In any place, whatever. 
He dimmed the light, with zealous care, 
But could not hide the silver hair. 
Of " him " the he heart of the pair! 
And chuckling, " This a crush, is! " 
He finished up his merry jest. 
Turning the sunlight from the west. 
Upon her face, where like fine lace. 
Wrinkles showed thro' the blushes! 



Silver IV i n g s 



31 



THE " ORIFLAMME " OF FRANCE 

A STRIPLING, sunny-faced, and fair, 

Scarce more than a child was he. 

His smiling eyes were blue as a girl's, 

Like a girl's, his golden hair, 

But the sword he wore on his hip, that 

day. 
Was the sword that a man should wear. 
He sat his horse, like the man he was. 
Though of such tender years. 
For he bore the " Oriflamme " of France, 
Despite his mother's tears. 
" Weep not for me, sweet mother mine! " 
(As he kissed away a tear). 
He said, (and he spoke with smiling lips) 
A Coursen, may not fear! 

All through that day, where the fiercest 

fight 
Was waged, and the struggle worst, 
A slender lad, shook the banner of France, 
In the face of the foe accursed! 
"A Coursen! A Coursen! A moi! " he 

cried, 
" For the Oriflamme of France! " 

Broken he lay, at the end of the day. 
On the sodden, blood-stained grass. 
His girlish curls, were wet with the dew. 
But, when the foe sought to pass, 
He sprang to his feet — "A moi!" He said 
"A Coursen! A Coursen! " (his battle cry) 
" For France! Though the grave should 

be my bed," 
And the " Oriflamme " held high! 

RETROSPECT 

Once, long ago on the shores of Time — 

A people there was and a place! 

And I lived with them, and I spoke with 

them 
And met them all face to face. 
I laughed and I worked and I wept, with 
them — 

These people of little ways, 
I mourned their dead and I prayed by 

their sick. 
Ah me — these many days! 



I gave my heart for a piece of stone — 
And my brain, and my soul, to the blind; 
They used me awhile, then passed me 

by— 
For the one goal, they sought to find — 
For the piler of golden coin, on coin. 
And the light of life's social blaze! 
So I shake the dust, from my feet — 

" Farewell! " 
Small town of little ways — 
And I laugh, as I think of my hard won 

niche, 
In the light of these happier days! 
But if out of the crowd that passed me 

by- 
In the whole of that small way town, 
I catch the gleam of a friendly eye — 
Or the sound of a voice I have known, 
I will say to myself — " If one heart is 

here, 
That does not quite forget — 
All I gave, all I wept, all I suffered, to 

earn. 
Is worth remembering yet! " 



FORGOTTEN 

Like a last year's bird's nest that hangs 

on the tree, 
Like the hive that once sheltered the new 

queen bee, 
Like the cast-off skin of the sinuous snake, 
That lies in the heart of the new sprung 

brake. 
Forgotten; cast into obscurity. 
Torn out of the heart that once held me! 

But perhaps, like the bird that came back 

to the nest. 
In the spring and still finds the old home 

the best. 
The heart that was mine will return to me, 
As the wandering bird to its nest in the 
tree. 
And again in that heart, my own shall 

rest. 
Sheltered and safe, like the bird in its nest. 



32 



Silver Wings 



BARRED GATES 

Ever the closed door, 

And the barred gate — 

Have held, for me — 

An air of mystery! 

Within the place denied, 

I long to roam, 

To see flung wide — 

The gate! To own 

The right, to enter there! 

I long to pass one day — 

And hear the guardian. 

Of those closed gates say. 

" Enter Beloved, enter! 

In his halls, the Master waits 

Thy longed for coming — 

These barred gates — 

Are not for Thee! 

Enter, and — share! " 

And then my feet would press. 

The velvet smoothness 

Of that emerald grass. 

And high above my head would pass. 

The birds among the tree-tops! 

They would mate, and sing — 

More early there, as they do every 

spring — 
Among the scented flowering, shrubs I 'd 

move — 
Touching each blossom, with the hand of 

love. 
Linger a moment at the open door — 
Then joyous enter, barred without, no 

more! 

MUSICA! 

The " Spirit of Music " came to me last 

night, 
And oh! but her voice was sweet! 
She played on my heartstrings. 
And swept them with song; 
The gamut she ran was complete. 
The warm thrill of love, the cool heights 

of a star. 
The peace that the blessed shall know! 
Ambition — Despair — all, all of them 

there — 
And visions of wild lands afar! 



R. S. V. P. 

When you have come to thirty-eight. 

Or forty, you are at the gate. 

That leads to age! 

And so you seek the skilled masseuse, 

Or masseur is it, that you choose? 

And scan the page. 

That advertises things to do. 

To keep you young, and pretty too. 

The ice cold bath, 

Seems just the best — the only way, 

To make your fading beauty stay! 

You tread that path! 

They promise you, a pleasant glow 

And greater thrills, than love can know, 

Alas, for truth! 

/ only know about the glows, 

They always get me on the nose! 

I still seek youth! 

So if you know a thing or two. 

That I can do at f-o-r-t-y-t-w-o! 

To bring it back! 

Don't hesitate a moment more. 

But write, and leave it at my door 

In white, and black. 

LASS MICH HINEIN! 

A PERSONAGE knocked at the Golden 

Gate, 
*" Holla! Holla! — Lass mich hinein! " 
He stormed and thundered, he thought 

he was late. 
He shouted " I 'm cold and can not wait." 
*" Dummkopf! " he yelled " I 've come to 

stay! " 
Said Saint Peter, " We 're not taking 

Germans today! " 

*Hello! Hello! Let me come in! 
*Blockhead. 

KAISERLICHE, ALMAECHTIGKEIT 

Some time ago, not yet forgot: 

The Kaiser sang the happy lot. 

Of peoples, ruled by " ME — und Gott! " 

In this mad war's, ensanguined revel, 

(To place him on his proper level). 

His boast should be, " I and — the devil! " 



Silver JV i n g s 



33 



SPRING COMES 

There 's a ripple, and a sparkle, to the 

river — 
And a mist of green seems lying on the 

trees — 
And the willows, lovely willows, first to 

know it. 
Are hanging, leafy streamers to the 

breeze! 
Spring is coming! Life is waking! Hearts 

are beating! 
In all the forms, that live and love and 

grow. 
And my heart beats fast with joy of 

living, loving. 
And happiness, in knowing, what I know! 
Spring is here! A bird calls from the 

branches — 
Spring is here! My glad heart echoes too, 
Oh, singing bird! My heart is also giving^- 
Glad praise to Him, to whom our praise is 

due. 



THE LOCAL PAPER 

(Sotto Voce) 

" Memorial Lodge of Elks at Three! " 

Speaker, the Hon. W. B. 

Two nurses graduate, and I see — 

Diplomas presented, by W. B. 

Liberty bond boosting, Y. M. C. — 

A. Chairmanned, too by W. B. 

In how many places at once, is he? 

*Ubiquitous, brilliant W. B. 

What 's next on the list? 

A debutante's Pink Tea — 

Speeches by some one, 

It 's torn — I can't see! 

But it's no one of course — but W. B.! 

A colored folks meeting, 

Is on the " tapis " — 

For the Red Cross, They 've captured 

W. B. 
To speak? — Why of course, yes it seems 

to me! 
The man of the hour is W. B. 
For congressman, also two or three 



Are mentioned, but " silver tongued " 

W. B. 
Seems the one worthy foe. 
Of " Democracie " — 
It certainly looks, as if Salisbury, Md. 
Is greatly indebted, to W. B.! 
Our Orator, Chairman, our Arbiter — he, 
Certes! Salisbury, " banks " on W. B.! 

*Look in the dictionary and you will see. 
What some of it means, to be W. B.! 

A CATASTROPHE! 

Travelling along, in heedless bliss, 

Adown the shining rail. 

Was a 'tater bug, that measured — 

Half an inch, from head to tail. 

He meant to join a colony, 

Where many more abode — 

Of his own kind; a rod or so — 

Beyond, the public road! 

The pleasant, polished, pathway. 

Was soothing to tired feet, 

He thought it kind, to put it there — 

Walking was quite a treat! 

A whistle shrill! a rush, a roar — 
Now would n't it be best. 
As little bug is there no more. 
To let this matter rest? 



MR. HOOVER AGAIN! 

Oh, Mr. Hoover! — now you 're teasing 

me — 
I 'm not a bit of good at figures don't you 

see? 
I can't remember, which meals, of the 

three, 
Must on each day, wheatless, or meatless, 

be! 
But you can't faze me, in this game, you 

play! 
Although perhaps; you really think you 

may! 
For I 've decided one meal, (while you 

stay) 
Shall be entirely EATLESS, every day! 



34 



Silver Wings 



GOTT MIT UNS 

The Kaiser, calls upon his God! 
He shrieks it near, and far — 
" God with us! " Yes, of course, he is: 
The murderous, God of War! 

THE DAUGHTER'S LAMENT 

(First daughter critically) 

Why don't you put on more style. 

Mother? 
I wish you could see your hair — 
Can't you see to powder your nose, 

mother? 
And your skirt is quite threadbare — 
Mrs. Dash, who lives on the next street, 
Is so stylish and up to date, 
I always wish, that you looked like her. 
Whenever we chance to meet! 
You should wear your skirt, much shorter 

Mother! 
And not that kind of a shoe! 
And your gloves! they are all wrong — 

Mother! 
Oh — I don't know WHAT — I can do — ! 
I really can't make you look right. 

Mother — 
But maybe, you '11 pass — as it 's YOU! 

(Second daughter complainingly) 
Oh! — So you are going out, Mother — 
There 's dust on the cellar stair! 
And the chairs on the porch, are crooked. 

Mother! 
But I really don't think you care! 
I 've scrubbed and swept all the morn- 
ing — 
And the windows are still to do! 
There 's a cobweb up in the attic. 

Mother! 
And I really do think, that you 
Might keep the sparrows from using. 
The porch for their " menage a deux." 

Oh, well! If you 're going out. Mother! 
There 's nothing more to be said — 
But you 've left the hoe and a bucket, 
On the foot of the spare-room bed! 



COWARDS ALL! 

What cowards love can make of us. 

Who think ourselves so strong, 

So dignified, so up to date. 

That we can do no wrong! 

And then one comes, who speaks to us. 

Or possibly does not; 

Where is our vaunted dignity? 

And why do we turn hot — 

Then cold — our minds a blank. 

Our famous perfect poise — 

Gone, like a Hun beneath a tank! 

Smashed! like a child's old toys. 

They speak; we say the thing that we — 

Would give worlds not to say! 

The very thing that He, (or She,) 

Quite surely scares away! 

And afterwards. Oh! afterwards — 

What things we could have said! 

Had not the sight of Her, (or Him) 

Quite chased them from our head. 

It is no good to make a list, 

Of things we mean to say. 

In case we should meet Him, (or Her) 

Some more propitious day — 

For everything would happen then. 

Just as it did before, 

It never fails, and if we care — 

It happens more and more! 

A WAIL 

A SONG rang thro' my brain last night. 
But fled away at morning light. 
What it might be, I can not say, 
All of it was gone next day! 
" Bob-white, whistling in the corn — 
Blue-bird, singing to the morn — 
Jolly Bull-frog, in a pool! " 
I can't tell, is there no rule — 
I could follow, that would keep — 
A verse alive, yet let me sleep? 
Or must I snatch paper, and pen — 
Turn on the light, and write it, when — 
I wake, no matter at what hour — 
There comes to me, the word of power, 
" Write this or that! " Why can't I stay. 
Asleep and write it down, next day? 



Silver Wings 



35 



ASPIRATIONS! 

I WANT to be handling the brush and the 

pen, 
I want to be stirring the great hearts of 

men, 
I don't like to handle the dustpan, and 

brush, 
I don't like to stir the morning's mush! 
But it 's dust, dust, dust! 
The song of the duster and broom. 
And it 's wash, wash, wash! 
Dishes, morning, night and noon! 

I 'd love to be thrilling the whole outside 

world, 
While standing beside some great banner 

unfurled! 
I don't want to be washing great tubsful 

of clothes, 
Or cooking boiled dinner, and holding my 

nose. 
But it 's scrub, scrub, scrub! 
At the same old tasks, each day. 
And it 's rub, rub, rub! 
Till it 's time to hit the hay! 

Oh, why do I love the wild wind as it sighs. 
In the tops of the trees, and why should 

my eyes. 
Seek beauty in all things; and my beating 

heart 
Long to be of the world a great recognized 

part? 
When it 's bake, bake, bake! 
With eyes and nose, burnt red — 
Muffins, and meat, and cake, 
For folks that have to be fed! 

Why was I not born with the eyes of a 

mole. 
That only sees well in its own little hole. 
Where it digs out its runs, in its blind 
eyed way. 

And cares not a jot for the glory of day. 
Then I 'd dig, dig, dig. 
And creep and shuffle and crawl, 
And not care a single fig. 
For anything else at all. 



But I long to be handling the brush, and 

the pen — 
And I know I could waken the dead souls 

of men, 
So here 's a farewell, to the dustpan and 

brush. 
Let those who must have it, come stir up 

the mush! 
Let them stir, stir, stir! 
Let them polish, and scrub, and shine! 
But I 've bid farewell to the whole darn 

lot. 
There 's not any more for mine! 



SOMEWHERE IN ***** 
(Marie teasingly) 

Dis done, Gaultier, comment ca va? 
Take me ridin' in ze car! — 
Pourquoi, ne reponds tu pas? — 
G-r-o-u-c-h-y ? why of course you are! 
Gaultier! 

Mais si tu m'aimes, 
Si tu m'aimes, 
Dis done Gaultier, 
Pourquoi pas! 

Perhaps, you think to " get my goat! " 
But if you do, you 'd best take note. 
It is not wise, to rock the boat — 
When on uncharted streams, you float! 
Gaultier! 

Mais si tu m'aimes, 
Oui si je t'aime, 
Dis done, Gaultier, 
Pourquoi pas? 

Allons! Tu sais, que c'etais toi! 

Who made the running, ce n'est pas moi! 

Merci Monsieur! Une autre fois! 

Mais dis done Gaultier, Pourquoi pas — ? 

Oh, si tu m'aimes, 
Et si, je t'aime! 
Dites alors Gaultier, 
Comment ca va! 



36 



Silver IV i n g s 



FAREWELL SUMMER 

In winter's arms, dear summer dallies 

long — 
Her dancing feet — 
Are shod with golden days. 
Ah, summer! you are fair and sweet. 
But hoary winter's ice and sleet. 
Will drive you out, tho' in his hair 
You 've twisted fingers, rosy-fair! 
His frosty breath is fierce and bold, 
The Southern wind is turning cold. 
To trifle with his silvered hair 
It seems to me you will not dare — 
As he grows stronger. 
Sweet one, he '11 stand your flirting ways. 
No longer! 

LOVE'S EYES 

What matter if the rain comes down, 
In torrents as it came today! 
Careless I walked and watched the play, 
Of lightning flashing — 

Then thunder roared, seeking to drown 
The frantic tearing of the wind. 
While I — You know I did not mind — 
The thunder's crashing. 

For tho' my footsteps, wetly splashed — 
In rain pools, as I sped along, 
I thought of you — thought turned to song, 
And I walked singing! 

" What matter, if the summer sky — 
Be grey or of an azure hue — 
I only know, Love's eyes are blue," 
And my thought winging — 

Its flight to you, I sang again — 

" What matter, tho' the tempest's roar. 

Should sweep the world, from shore to 

shore, 
Swirling around me! " 

If still I see your eyes, my own — 
Smile on me; eyes, so deeply blue — 
All else is naught, if they are true — 
Love's eyes, that found me! 



THE VOTE! 

" What do you want.'' " St. Peter said, 

When he could get his breath; 

(The woman soul that he saw there. 

Had frightened him to death!) 

" I WANT THE VOTE! " she yelled, 

and flung 
Her body at his head! 
" Take it! " he said, and slammed the 

gate, 
" / wish you would stay dead! " 



THE PEACOCKS 

The peacocks cry beneath the wall. 

Misty and soft the air! 

The sun has gone behind the trees, 

But Earth wakes everywhere. 

The mystery of love, and life. 

Is stirring in her heart — 

Dear Love, I think of you, and what 

Has kept us still apart. 

And then at last your footsteps, fall — 

Upon the silent street. 

And you are swiftly coming — 

Wildly my pulses beat! 

Sitting quietly, in the shadow, 

I can see your head held high — 

A little smile, upon your lips. 

As once in passing by. 

Your fingers, touch the little leaves 

That bud upon my hedge. 

You pluck one, how I wish that I — 

Dared now, redeem that pledge! 

Shall I always, see you coming. 

When the dusk is in the sky? 

Shall I think of you, and you of me, 

When we hear the peacocks cry — 

Still must our hearts be ever bound, 

And may our lips not meet? 

Must I always seek the shadows. 

When you walk down the street? 

Scream! Peacocks, scream! Your voices 

shrill. 
Fill all the air and sky. 
Birds of ill omen! was it you. 
That killed my dream or I? 



Silver Wings 



37 



FANCHETTE AND THE GARGOYLE 

A fantasy 

Beneath the parapet, all hunched and 

queer — 
The Gargoyle sits! 

Upon his lips, and in his eyes a leer — 
That ever flits. 

And flickers, in the moon's pale beam ! 
Side-wise, he peeps — his twisted smile — 
Is not unkindly. 

Under the roof Fanchette, meanwhile — 
Is singing, and sewing, blindly — 
She never heeds, the bended head 
That hovers o'er her trundle bed — 
Against the window pressing, 
The ancient monster hanging there. 
Is nothing — Fanchette does not care — 
If he should watch her dressing. 
And so the Gargoyle, sits and smiles — 
And Fanchette, sings while sewing! 
Could an old Gargoyle have a heart? 
And could Love, find it with his dart? 
Alas! there is no knowing! 

The snow lies deep and white and cold — 

The day is dying! 

Under the eaves, sits the Gargoyle, old — 

Ah! me, how time is flying — 

Who lies upon the trundle bed? 

'T is Fanchette, all her youth is sped. 

Beneath the Gargoyle's spying — 

Shrivelled, and toothless, withered, grey! 

She weeps, that she loves the Gargoyle 

today. 

For he is lying — 

Broken and flung, from his ancient seat — 

By a ruthless hand to the cobbled street! 

'Tis a fact, there 's no denying. 

(And the saddest part of the tale is this) 

Love came, cruel love, so very late — 

They failed to snatch a single kiss. 

From the hand of Fate! 

LOVE LAUGHS 

Love laughs at locksmiths, and at many 

more. 
Who linger longingly, outside — the door! 



A NEW YEAR'S GREETING 

Success, and honor without end. 
Health to use them! 
New Year's wishes from a friend, 
Don't refuse them! 

HE COMES 

The night wind sighs on the hill-side 
The moonlight lies on the sea — 
And the river that meets it, is bearing 
My love on its breast to me. 
How slow are the hours of longing. 
As they drag thro' the summer night. 
Unreal, mystic, and stifling, 
They seem to pause in their flight! 
Oh, Love, will the rushing waters. 
Bear you safe on their breast to me — 
To sleep in my arms, on my longing, heart. 
Love — that the night makes free! 

A MESSAGE 

On a tree near a grave, a wild bird was 
singing, 
Singing of Life, and of sweet endless 
love, 
No care for tomorrow, as the clear notes 
are soaring — 
Up, up, from the earth, to the blue sky 
above ! 

Oh! bird, to my heart you seem bringing a 
message, 
A message of hope, from the grave at 
my feet. 
That tears from the tomb, all its ominous 
presage. 
As it fills the whole world, with its 
music so sweet. 
For it seems that a soul, sings of great 
joy, unending — 
That rose from the grave, to the bright 
realms above. 
And the message dear bird, that in music 
you 're sending. 
Is that death's, but the gateway to 
Infinite Love! 



38 



Silver Wings 



" LA DONNA E MOBILE " 

Down the long road, one summer's day, 

A woman trod the dusty way, 

And as she plodded mile on mile. 

She thought, and her face wore a sneering 

smile, 
For she thought upon the shortcomings of 

man! 
And somewhat this way, her musings ran. 
As car after car sped down the street, 
While she groaned as she rested her aching 

feet. 
"A man! what 's a man? A selfish beast. 
He 'd watch you starve, while he sat at a 

feast. 
Ten cars and one man alone in each car — 
With a satisfied smile, and a fat cigar! 
I can not imagine, what some women see 
In a man, they don't cut any figure with 

me! " 
A vulgar person, you '11 think she was. 
Although perhaps not, as you know, 

because, 
She spoke her thoughts, and between you 

and me, 
When you 've lost your temper, your 

speech is free. 
And as each toe gave her a separate jab. 
She 'd have given her eyes for any old cab. 



Silently, softly, up to the roadside 
Rolled a handsome car, with the door 

held wide. 
And a deep voice in courteous accents 

said, 
" Can't I give you a lift, you are tired» 

I 'm afraid?" 
Good heavens! a man; and a strange man 

at that, 
She thought as he gracefully lifted his hat. 
" I am sure you had better ride with me, 
You are nearly exhausted, as I can see." 
It was terribly tempting, so in she hopped, 
How quickly the pain in her tootsies 

stopped! 
And not only that, but her charioteer. 
Spoke flatteringly, in her prejudiced ear! 



When they stopped at her door, it seemed 

all too soon, 
And her suffragette doctrine, had changed 

its tune. 
For when someone said " How late you 

are! " 
She murmured " Deus ex machinal " 



GRAY DAYS 

Beloved! beloved! what day-dreams are 

fading, 
As the grey days of winter, go dragging 

along. 
What memories are lying, 
Where the rose leaves are dying, 
Yet my heart like the robin still hits a 

gay song! 

Beloved! beloved! the glad days are 

coming, 
And bringing full measure, of sunshine 

and flowers, 
And time — Time is flying, 
With my hand in yours lying. 
Grey days, will have vanished, while 

Love, counts the hours. 

TOO LATE! 

There were Tom, and Jack, and Alex, 

and Fred! 
And Dick, and Jim, and Joe, 
Dear playmates all, and we danced 

through youth. 
To the lilt of the fiddle and bow. 

And there was one, who was faithful, and 

good, 
Faithful, and good, and true — 
Then out of the shadows, another came. 
And oh, that other was you! 

It was Alex, and Dick, and Tom, and 

Jack, 
And Fred, and the one who was true — 
So late you came; Love's radiant flame! 
Oh, why were things ordered so? 



Silver Wings 



39 



TO MY MUSE 

Come back to me, back to me, muse of 

the morning! 
Sing of the joy of Life's glad early years! 
Youth and Love in hand in hand, in that 

wonderful dawning — 
When Hope is triumphant, and the heart 

knows no fears. 

Sing to me now; oh spirit of night-time — 

Sing of the peace of the evening hour; 

Of the glory of sunset, the soft tender 
twilight. 

And the sleep that shall come, as a light- 
falling shower! 

Sing of tired eyelids, closing, worn out 

with long watching — 
And waiting fulfilment, of dreams that 

have failed. 
Sing of great things accomplished; of 

failures forgotten — 
And the joy of one love, before which all 

else paled. 
Then leave me, dear Spirit — for I too am 

passing, 
On — on, to the rest at the end of the day — 
To the sleep, that shall end in most 

wonderful waking — 
A step further on, in the soul's upward 



way! 



YEUX BLEUS 



Beloved, but your eyes are blue! 

Blue as the sky at noon. 

I saw them as you smiled at me. 

Beneath the summer moon! 

I tried to pierce their azure depths, 

For oh, I longed to see, 

The secrets you had hidden there, 

And what they meant for me! 

Beloved, but your eyes are blue. 

Blue as the summer sea — 

Yet deep and dark, as pools that lie. 

At the foot of some forest tree — 

I 've seen your eyes, (and loved them so) 

When they have smiled at me! 



MOTHER LOVE 

Out of the west, out of the west! 
Wind cloud in the sky! 
Bird in the nest, bird in the nest! 
I fear for you, ere it goes by. 
Safety is best, safety is best, 
Spread your wings wide and fly! 

Deep in the nest, under my breast. 
Warm my little ones lie! 
Here I must rest, here I must rest. 
Even tho' I must die! 



PARTED 
The one love, the great love, the love past 



expression 



Love never crowned by the joy of pos- 
session; 

Fate seized it and tore it, in fury as blind. 

From my heart, as a storm cloud, is torn 
by the wind — 

Witheld from my lips, the loved lips I 
would press — 

In the passionate moment of Love's first 
caress. 

Beloved! Beloved! What madness of long- 
ing — 

Fills my soul; and what dreams, are 
unceasingly thronging — 

The years that divide us; till death sets 
us free, 

Soul to soul, heart to heart — for Eternity! 

A SUMMER IDYLL 

In the summer twilight 
Floating — she — and I — 
Down the river, on our oars. 
Quite content to lie. 
Music of the wild bird 
In the trees above — 
Singing in an ecstasy. 
An ecstasy of love! 
Slipping down the river, 
In a golden boat — 
Love and Life, together. 
On Fate's tide afloat! 



40 



Silver Wings 



A QUESTION 

The toiling masons bent their backs, 

under the heavy stone, 
Or polished marble piers to set, about the 

massive throne; 
A splendid Temple slowly rose, before their 

reverent eyes, 
A Mystic Shrine, to lead and guide, their 

spirits to the skies. 
So clean, so pure, so strong, were they — 

no weakling found a place. 
Working beneath JEHOVAH'S eye, and 

almost face to face. 
Perfect in body, was each man, as well as 

pure in heart, 
And working joyously — while piece by 

piece, and slowly, part, by part — 

The wondrous Temple rose, holding God's 

Mercy Seat, 
Upon whose folded wings, ofttimes there 

beat — 
The glory of the Lord; or other time alone, 

and dark — 
Waiting, behind the four fold veil, stood 

Israel's Ark! 

Within a Temple's walls once more, 

gathers a crowd of men, 
A throne in there exalted, and an altar, 

now as then — 
But is there still a Mercy Seat, above the 

folded wings, 
JEHOVAH'S glory, in their hearts, or 

more material things? 
Are hands as strong, and hearts as pure, 

as in those far off days? 
And do the Temple builders still, give to 

their God the praise? 



THE ANSWER 

And while I questioned, swift the answer, 

came; 
"A brotherhood of men, in whom still 

burns the flame, 
Of love; bound in that brotherhood, by 

great JEHOVAH'S name." 



THE GRACIOUS HAND 

For five long years, I wandered up and 
down — 

The cold, unfriendly streets, of a small 
eastern town! 

And here, and there, the hand of welcome 
met. 

The fault I doubt not, must have been, 
my own — 

A stranger in a strange land, and un- 
known — 

I sought some gentle heart, that might 
forget — 

That this was so! — giving to me — 

Such kindly welcome, that I might feel 
free — 

To come, or go — and there to find — 

A friend possessing, both a heart and 
mind — 

Seeing beneath the surface — who might 
know — 

That flowers can blossom, underneath 

the snow! 
And then a gracious hand, flung wide, a 

door — 

And bade me enter; in that place and 

hour — 
I found, all I had sought — and more! 



A TOAST 

Come — here 's a toast to Love, and 

Death — 
The two great, powers that be! 
The two great powers that rule the world, 
That rule thee, world and me! 
Drink first to Death, for what is Death? 
New Life, for you — and I ! 
Now drink to Love, the greater power — 
For Love can never die! 



Silver fV i n g s 



41 



THE NEW MOON 

Tonight I saw the new moon lie — 
A thread of rose and gold, 
Upon the sky. 

Bedded on warm translucent grey. 
Where the colors of departed day. 
Had touched in passing by! 

THE FULL MOON 

A month ago I saw the new moon lie, 

A thread of rosy light upon the sky — 

Where late to rest, 

Phoebus had dropped, 

From out the flaming west! 

Eastward, I turned my longing eyes 

tonight, 
A golden radiance, filled the sky with light! 
A misty veil around her flung. 
Not white, or cold, or chaste — Diana, 

hung — 
Wrapped in the soft, mysterious tender 

light- 
That fell from her. Dreaming alone, I 

stood 
Enthralled and permeated, like bejewelled 

night 
Which decked the river and the sleeping 

wood! 

DARKNESS AND DAWN 

And this I dreamed at crow of cock today; 
Dead in our trespasses and sins we lay — 
I — and the one to whom my love was 

given! 
A scanty hand's-breadth, all I knew of 

heaven 
Lay from my frozen heart — 
While I, who had from him, no life apart 
Knew he had died, my soul to save; 
That for my soul, his soul he gave, 
Hoping thereby, the shame, and curse, to 

bear. 
Unknowing this — that I too, dead — lay 

there. 
Then the glad dawn, a blaze of glory, 

broke — 
And in his arms, oh, blessed morn, I woke! 



LAUGHING LOVE 

Laughing Love, came to my house — 
A thing of smiles and joy. 
He stole my heart, from out of me, 
Bonnie, laughing boy! 

AI DI MI! 

Dead hopes; dead dreams; dead flowers; 

and more than these — 
Haunt the long hours, of empty sodden 

days — 
Stretching in endless dreariness, like 

dankly dripping trees. 
While my beloved's face is hid from me. 
And Life's dull stream, slips down 

unheeded ways. 

EXIT AMOR 

Upon the long wall, the roses hang dead, 
Faded and sodden, summer has fled. 
Joyless the noonday, frost in the air. 
Love from the roses has turned in despair! 

REINCARNATED 

Your daring eyes again meet mine, 
I hear you murmur, " long admired! " 
It warms my heart like strong, new wine, 
I live once more; Oh! " Much, desired! " 

I know not how, or when, or where, 
Our lives entwined, — Nor do I care. 
Out of the past, — ambition fired. 
Your eyes, have called me, " Long 
desired! " 

Again my heart warms to the strife. 
Of that strange state, that we call " life " 
I laid it down one day, so tired — 
It 's yours once more; Oh, " Heart's 
desired! " 

EVER TRUE! 

Like some wild bird, that hears a well 

known voice 
And gladly finds again the Master's hand, 
So is my heart, to Love forever true — 
As Pan, or Antony — or you! 



42 



Silver Wings 



A CURE 

A FRIEND, who can understand — 
A love that always thrills, 
A kiss, and a clasp of the hand, 
A cure for all life's ills. 

NO LIMIT 

Come; hitch your wagon to a star. 
It matters not how high, or far, 
The goal you set, so that you keep. 
Your vision clear. 

Aim high, press on, go straight and true! 
Success at last! Vict'ry, for you! 
Life gives to every man his due — 
And he's no fear! 

RIPPLES 

Ripples, to show which way the wind is 

blowing, 
And in my eyes, ripples of laughter too; 
Surely, you know which way the breeze 

is going, 
Ah, well! it 's really very fair for you. 

Ripples to show which way the wind is 

blowing. 
And on my lips, ripples of laughter too; 
To tell you that my heart is overflowing. 
With love that lives, alone belov'd for 

you! 

Tell me, tell me, my own — my heart's 

btflovcd. 
Do you care at all which way the wind 

should blow? 
Whether loving eyes, or frozen looks, 

should greet you? 
June's tender warmth, or winter's ice and 

snow! 



THE GUARDIAN SEA 

The soft warm wind is in the south. 
And the waning moon hangs low — 
Clouds bring the promise of an early rain, 
A sweetness, as of roses, fills the air — 
Wild roses crown the tangled hedges of 

the lane! 
Distant and dim, the hills lie to the 

West — 
The setting moon reveals them mistily! 
Clouds silver-edged, are lying on their 

crest. 
Below the hill where lies the rose-clad lane, 
Nestles the slumber-sated, silent town — 
And over all, the ancient church tower 

keeps — 
Its faithful watch. Upraised a mystic 

crown. 
Above the place where love enfolded 

sleeps — 
So much that I and mine hold dear! 
Southward there lies, that strip of silver 

sea, 
That narrow strip, that kept our land 

from fear 
Of crafty foes; in ages past. Again, and 

yet again. 
On wings of wonder, they have sought, to 

pass — 
And have passed, death in the murderous 

rain — 
Of bombs and other hatefulness. Alas! 
Defiant of the ancient guardian sea — 
Great God, of all — who makest all things 

safe, 
Guard Thou, this place, so loved and dear 

to me! 
Altho' the wicked round it rage and 

chafe — 
In Thy safekeeping, let it ever be. 



THE NOOK 

Deep down, I know a leafy spot! 
The birds and conies know it. 
A sheltered nook it is, God wot! 
The hunter's footsteps, enter not. 
To Love alone I '11 show it! 



TO THE WORLD 

Tho' you should pass me by — 
Why should I care, 
Glad in my heart am I, 
Free as the air! 



Silver JV i n g s 



43 



A VOICE! 

Was that your voice. Oh! Pan, that 

plead with me? 
Or was it Antony, whose voice again I 

heard? 
When he, whose pleading lured my heart 

today. 
Like some wild bird, that gladly comes 

again. 
To find its master's hand— tho' long 



astray 



I can not tell, but this is strange and 

true — 
My heart awoke, my soul was born anew 
In those few moments — Love, with you! 

LET THERE BE LIGHT! 

Out of the infinite murk and gloom, came 

light! 
Oh blessed Light! 
That tore the veil of darkness from the 

earth. 
And cast out night! 
Amid the lightning's play, 
God spake and said; " Let there be Light! 
And forth there leapt; the day! 

ETERNAL PEACE 

What if the hours be weary? 

What if the night be long? 

Soon shall a glad new morning, 

Open with light and song. 

Oh! for the glorious dawning. 

Of a day that shall never cease. 

When there shall be no more mourning. 

In the light of eternal peace! 

BIEN-AIME! 

I KNOW no other love than you, 

Bien-aime — 

I see your face, the long day through — 

Bien-aime. 

Yet on the street. 

If we should meet, 

A brief " Good-day! " 

Is all that either has to say, 

Bien-aime! 



LOVE'S GREATEST GIFT 

Oh! give to me — 

The fairest gift, 

That Love can give — 

In Earth, or Air, or Sea! 

Wildly I prayed. 

Love answered me, / 

Look up and live! ' 

I give to thee — 

The gift supreme. 

In all the three! 

And then no more, 
I seemed, to hear. 
No answer came. 
And a wild fear. 
Beat down Love's flame. 

Oh, Life! Oh, Love! 
The gift today 
Is mine — I pray. 
Love let me keep — 
The little babe. 
That lies asleep, 
Upon my breast, 
Love's greatest gift, 
And — best! 



AFFINITY 

As night calls unto day, 

As the moon draws the sea. 

Beloved! Beloved! Your heart calls to me. 

And draws me resistless. I care not to 

know. 
Aught save that you need me! 
Straight as from a bow, 
The swift flying arrow, speeds on to its 

goal — 
So my heart answers yours. 
And soul draws unto soul. 

PURPOSELESS 

Wind cloud in the sky — 
Desert sand, tempest blown; 
Man! What is man. 
In the world scheme — Alone? 



u 



Silver fV i n g s 



THE SOUTH OF OTHER DAYS 

I SING of the South, of a vanished South, 
Of the South that used to be! 
With the dear old dusky, " Mammy " 
And the white child on her knee. 
While the darkies, in the gloaming, 
Sang beneath the homestead tree. 

Laughing, laughing, laughing, 

Lazy, lovely South! 

Hot of heart and gay of eye. 

With a kiss for every mouth! 

I sing of the South, of its heroes. 
Of its wonderful women and men. 
Oh! why did the stars in their courses. 
Not leave us as we were then! 

Laughing, laughing, laughing — 

Dear laughing, loving. South! 

Warm of heart, love in your eye. 

Oh! kiss me on the mouth. 

Blow softly, southern breezes. 
For on your breath, you bear — 
The sweetness of all the magnolias. 
And the dogwood scents the air 
As lily-white and fragrant. 
As the southern women are. 

Loving, loving, loving. 

Lips of the smiling South! 

I long for you eternally. 

Sweet lips, and perfect mouth! 



WINTER IN MINNESOTA 

Across the lake, longdrawn, and wild 

and clear — 
The wolf call rings! 
The listening children, crouch, or hide in 

fear; 
The great grey shape, nearer, and yet 

more near. 
His challenge flings! 

How weird, how wild! How splendid is the 

night! 
With boom and roar. 
The lake makes answer, radiant in the 

light. 
Of moon and star! Unearthly, glittering, 

bright — 
From shore to shore! 

But to one heart, the wild clear call 

appeals. 
With joyous thrill; 
'T is she, who answering calls, and swiftly 

steals 
Across the snow to where her mate, she 

feels — 
Has made his kill! 

And I, who listen to the clear wild call, 
The lake's weird roar. 
The notes so plaintively, that rise and fall. 
Rejoice, in the great beauty of it all — 
On this wild shore! 



CYNTHIA 



Who is Cynthia? 
Don't you know. 
/ have found her! 
Roses blow 
On her cheek, 
Eyes as blue, 
As a child's 
Sweet and true. 
Look at me — 
Smiling softly, 
fVho is she? 
I think ^0« know! 



MORITURI TE SALUTANT! 

And so you know! — Ah, God! But youth 

was sweet! 
And Love has laid his fairest at my feet. 
But all his passionate tribute I would give. 
For this one chance, again belov'd to live! 
Oh, Love take all! then give to me just 

this; 
Death, and oblivion; that I may not miss 
Too much, of what life meant from day to 

day; 
The life, that You, and Time, have 

snatched away! 



Silver IV i n g s 



45 



STAR FLIES 

Pure child mind, to whose tender fancy 

came — 
The fairy " Star-flies." Dear enchanted 

name. 
Filled with sweet memories of you, my 

" heart's delight." 
Where are you? — What your dreams 

tonight? 

IF WISHES WERE HORSES 

If wishes were horses, 
Then I should be riding, 
Down green lanes in summer. 
And you would be there! 

Scent of rose in the hedges, 
And sweet tuneful pledges 
Of love, from glad birds, 
Would be filling the air! 

Your eyes would seek mine. 
And no newly pressed wine. 
Would thrill my whole being. 
As your lips on mine! 

We would wander together, 
Where pinkly, the heather 
Lies thick on the downs. 
That look over the sea. 

Hand in hand, close together. 
In the grey misty weather; 
Lighthearted, enchanted 
With life we would be! 

If wishes were horses! 
The breezes of England, 
Would blow on my face 
Over Kent's lovely shore. 

And you would be with me. 
To tell me you loved me! 
And swear that our hearts 
Should be parted no more. 

The hours should be care free, 
Our eyes, gay, unsaddened. 
As in those dear days. 
On the hills, by the sea! 



KETTLE DRUMS 

Across the hills and fields of Kent, 
The kettle drums are calling, 
Down the narrow streets the fife notes fly, 
Just as the night is falling! 

Tr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r- ! 

A little child in the nursery a-bed, 
Sleepily lifted her curly head, 
" There go the drums and fifes " she said. 
Oh, music most enthralling! 

Tr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r- ! 

The echoes so fitfully, drifting down 
The wide nursery chimney, from the town; 
Were to the child but a fitting crown, 
To her day of simple pleasures! 



Tr-r-i 



r-r-r-r-r-r-r- 



In dreams she hears, the drums again, 
And treads Kent's hills, in sun or rain, 
But through the dreams there runs a vein. 
Of grief for vanished treasures! 



Tr- 



r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r- 



Do the drums still pass down the narrow 

street. 
And the children listen with dancing feet? 
Or, only in dreams do the kettle drums 

beat; 
And fifes through Kent's towns, go call- 



ing! 



Tr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r- ! 



Oh, boys, who left the downs of Kent, 
When the drums and fifes were calling. 
At Aisnes, or Soissons, do you lie, 
Awhile the night is falling! 

Tr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r- ! 

No more you '11 hear the fife and drum! 
Or shout for joy " Victory's come! " 
Beneath the sod your hearts are numb ! 
Waiting the " Last Trump's " calling! 



46 



Silver Wings 



SMOULDERING FIRES 

Men call you old, they only see 
The whitened hair; but as for me, 
I 've looked into your eyes, and know 
What smouldering fire lies 'neath the 
snow. 

MY OWN LAND 

Far are the shores of my own land, my 

homeland, 
Primroses carpet its wildwood and lea — 
Soon the wild roses will wave from the 

hedges, 
And all of it, all of it 's calling to me! 

Nightingales pour forth their song in the 

gloaming — 
The fountain still flings jewelled dewdrops 

afar — 
But the home of my father, no more knows 

my footsteps, 
Tho' its beauties, my heart's treasured 

memories are — 

Sunshine, on the meadows; moonlight, on 

the breakers — 
Voices of youth, full of laughter and song; 
Love's tender whisper, with music 

entrancing. 
Fills my ear — " Oh! my spirit,' ' I murmur 

" How long! " 

Were I free, I would speed, to my home- 
land, my own land. 

Roam thro' the wildwood, and dance o'er 
the lea — 

Mingle my soul, with the spray of the 
fountain. 

And once more my own land, return unto 
thee. 

PIN-PRICKS 

It is the little things in life, wear out our 

heart strings. 
Kill love, and turn once happy hours, to 

hours of strife! 
It is the pin-pricks, mar the whole of our 

existence. 
And kill the joy and happiness of Life. 



THE SUMMER MOON 

Gorgeous, glorious, golden moon, 

That fills the fervid sky 

Of night in summer. 

Shedding a radiance, warm as love itself — 

Upon the sleeping earth! 

My heart turns to you, full of love's 

desire — 
And longing for the days, when youth's 

warm fire — 
Burnt in my heart! 
And all love's world lay at my feet. 
Are you the same cold moon, I saw one 

night. 
Shine down upon a lake, that glittered, 

bright — 
With frost, upon the snow? While long 

and clear — 
The distant wolf call fell upon my ear! 
A woman's nature surely clings to you. 
So cold, so distant, glittering, in the blue. 
But warmed by passion, filled with love's 

desire. 
The glittering coldness, turns to radiant 

fire! 

THE ANSWERED PRAYER 

All through the night in bitter grief I lay, 
A burden on my heart — nor did the day — 
Bring surcease of my pain, nor any prayer 
Seem to have pierced, the heavy, dead- 
ened, air — 
Of unresponsive, deaf indifference, that 

tore 
My soul with grief; but still my sad heart 

bore 
This hope — that HE — who heeds the 

sparrow in its fall. 
Would turn his ear, to heed my anguished 

call. 

jj, jj, jjj jj, ^ jj, jj, 

And then as tho' a shining, pure, white 

flame 
Had touched my soul, there softly came — 
As night once more in dawn was slowly 

ending. 
The answered prayer — Peace — passing 

understanding. 



Silver fV i n g s 



47 



TO M. C. C. 

A GREAT enthusiasm fills wide-open eyes, 
Deep flashing pools, wherein a shadow 

lies; 
The rosy blush of youth is on her cheek, 
And eager, fast flung words, she hastes to 

speak! 
Faith in the world, despite its devious 

ways. 
Is hers, in human friendship's golden 

days- 
Responsive to love's lightest, gentlest 

touch. 
Child friend of mine, your life holds very 

much 
Of joy and sorrow. Heaven grant you may, 
Ever awaken to a glad today! 

HOOVERIZING 

I wonder! Shall we ever Hooverizc, on 

sleep! 
And so have nightless days? 
It seems to me we have to keep 
Most everything, for use in some new 

ways — 
So why not sleep? 
I sleep the sleep that comes, but to 
The just they say — yet still I could 
Keep wide awake, the whole night 

through — 
And give my sleeping hours 
To one who needs them — You! 

I do not dream, I do not even know. 
When Somnus closes fast my willing eyes; 
I know that I am safe, and glad, and 

warm ! 
Then, in a moment Chanticleer's alarm. 
Is ringing to the morning; clear and far. 
The moon has gone, the fading morning 

star. 
Has sought the West! 

Ah, yes — if I could ever give. 

To some poor heart, the power to rest — 

In peace upon Love's dear, warm breast — 

I would not selfish strive to keep. 

My whole night's sleep! 



HE KNOWETH BEST 

Oh! doubting ones weep not. Be of good 

cheer! 
Grieve not for those our lost ones, do not 

fear — 
God, of His mercy called them; He knows 

best — 
Begrudge them not His gift — eternal rest; 
For Life is cruel, tho' our hearts should 

break, 
'T is better far, that God in love should 

take 
Our best beloved, than those, once our 

own. 
Should turn and rend us! Prostrate, at 

Thy throne, 

" Not my will Lord, but Thine! I pray. 
Thou knowest best! Guide us from day to 

day! " 
Lest all the riven, anguished, tortured, 

years. 
Be filled with hate! — And bitter, useless 

tears — 

The sole return, for all the tender care. 
Of motherhood — No loving touch, to 

cheer — 
The tremulous footsteps, nearing death's 

long rest! 
"Thy Will be done, My God, Thou 

knowest best! " 



GATES AJAR 

Then Love, shall hold those gates ajar, 

for you — 
And guide your trembling footsteps, safely 

through. 
Shall sweeten all of Death's, dark bitter 

cup — 
And lift to God, your fainting spirit, up — 
Death is the great, the good, the ultimate 

release — 
Eternali Love's reward! Eternal Peace! 



48 



Silver fV i n g s 



A SUMMER'S NIGHT ON THE 
ENGLISH COAST 

" Heart of my heart," be silent! 
" Light of mine eyes," be still. 
The velvet dark is soft and warm, 
Night lies upon the hill. 

A thousand men are watching, 
To keep my babe from harm. 
Sleep soldier's son, sleep peacefully 
Upon thy mother's arm! 

Beyond this strip of silver sea, 
And the cliffs of dazzling white, 
Thy father's sword shall guard his son. 
(And his arm is strong to fight!) 

What can you see or hear " My heart? " 

What do you seem to fear? 

Are there sights and sounds for a new born 

soul, 
That a mother may not hear! 

God! — What was that? A falling star! 
What floats upon the cloud? 
This awful fear! — Ah! little son. 
A crash so near and loud! 

I saw thy father weeping stand, 
But now beside my bed — 
What ails thee " Glory of my life " 
Why are my hands so red? 

A moment since " dear heart " I prayed, 
For sleep to close thine eyes. 
And now — how still, and strange he looks! 
Hushed are his restless cries. 

Brightly across the silent sky, 
The golden glory steals, 
Another day dawns o'er the earth, 
And as it grows reveals — 

Upon a hill that looks to France, 
Across a silver sea, 

A shattered cot, and a slaughtered babe 
Upon a mother's knee! 



" Vengeance is mine! " Why this delay? 
Stretch forth in might thine arm! 
Lord turn this hideous night to day. 
The helpless keep from harm. 

Remember NOW, thy promised word 
It was, " I WILL REPAY! " 
And " Oh, deliver us, Good Lord;" 
Stretch forth Thine arm TODAY! 

WORSHIP 

Ablaze with light, adorned with brass, 

and gold! 
With cross, and vestment, this, Thy 

house and fold. 
Lord, how the music throbs upon my 

heart! 
Exquisite, beautiful, perfected, finished 

art! 

The tenor's pleading voice, so passion 

sweet; 
Responses, flute-like, that the choir 

repeat — 
Thund'rous; the bass takes the melodious 

note. 
Then soft again the tenor's pleadings, 

float! 

The jeweled lights! the warm, soft, 

scented air. 
The men and silk clad women, sitting 

there — 
Enthralled and thrilled, each sense alive, 

awake 
To so much beauty. Lord, this does not 

make 
A holy, place for me! 
Torn, bleedmg — through the briars, I 

force my way — 
To where tall trees, shut out the glare of 

day — 
But leave long, flickering trails of dancing 

light. 
And silvery moonbeams filter through at 

night. 
Prostrate, supine — my heart, pressed to 

the sod. 
Alone — in silence, would I worship God, 
Who died for me! 



Silver Wings 



49 



FREEDOM 



Free as the bird on the wing, 
Free as the wind in the tree. 
Bound by no power, I sing, 
The song of the free! 

Carry me wings, to the East! 
I would stand with my feet in the sea! 
With LucuUus and Bacchus, I 'd feast — 
The wine flowing free! 

Carry me wings, to the West! 
No more am I bound, I am free. 
And Liberty, fairest, and best. 
Is calHng to me! 

Love! ah, your kingdom is gone, 
Vanished your scepter, and crown. 
Freedom has come with the dawn; 
And cast your supremacy down! 

Do you glory in freedom my heart? 
Rejoice that of bonds you are freed. 
That Love shall no more be a part. 
Of Life's need. 

I know not, I know not, I see — 
Only the bird on the wing. 
And the wind as it stirs in the tree, 
I am free, seems to sing! 

But something is gone from the breeze, 
And the sun has no warmth any more. 
And the song of the bird in the trees. 
Is not as before! 

Come back Love! come forge me a chain. 
Bind me fast, for I would not be free. 
Life holds nothing of worth, I would gain. 
And lose Thee. 

ENGLAND 

Oh, England! my country, great mother 

of men ! 
The bravest, the noblest the world ever 

saw. 
They are gathering by thousands from 

valley and glen. 
From mountain and meadow and far 

distant shore. 



England calls them, what matter tho' 

death be the goal; 
They are hers, and give freely both body 

and soul. 
Great wonderful land, that has mothered 

such sons. 
Who can face with closed lips the foul, 

murderous Huns. 

Who boast not of prowess, by land or by 

sea, 
And seek not applause for each victory. 
But silent and steady, and faithful to 

death, 
Fight on for their country, and with their 

last breath. 

It is " England! My country, my dearly 

loved land! 
For you, and for freedom forever I stand. 
I am yours, soul and body, on land or on 

sea, 
In death, through disaster or in Victory! " 

FOLLOW THE FLAG! 
To A. D. 

The dogs of war have broken loose. 
Hell's legions are unchained! 
And the German dogs are rabid dogs. 
Accursed with crimes unnamed. 

They are clinging fast to the Lion's 

mane — 
And their slaver and slime, pollute. 
But their doom is near, and they shrink in 

fear. 
Of the noble and lordly brute! 

For England (the Lion) is strong and 

brave. 
With a heart that is loyal and true. 
A heart no foeman can ever crush down 
No matter what he may do! 

So follow the flag, and conquer the foe. 

And glory in England's might! 

My heart will go with you wherever you 

go, . 

And watch o'er you while you fight! 



50 



Silver JV i n g s 



TEMPLES 

Where the voice of the surf, with its 

sonorous roar, 
Sets the wild echoes flying, on some rocky 

shore. 
As it flings itself vainly, Almighty! I see 
The hand that restrains it; my soul turns 

to Thee! 

Where the storm wind in fury, is lashing 

the earth, 
While thunder roars back in its terrible 

mirth. 
And fire splits the heavens! In that 

stricken hour, 
I feel, and I worship, thy wonderful power. 

In the depths of the forest, where the soft 

summer breeze, 
Whispers and sighs, in the tops of the 

trees. 
Alone; save for Thee, my glad heart shall 

sing. 
Songs of thankful delight, to my God who 

is King! 

Oh, worship! my soul, in these temples, 

apart — 
God's temples of nature, not temples of 

art; 
Rise to heights, far beyond the last 

farthermost star; 
Seeking God the great Father, whose 

children we are! 

Night is here! purple skies, where the 
stars gleam above. 

Enfolding the world like God's infinite 
love; 

And the calm solemn peace of the wonder- 
ful night, 

Draws my worshipping soul, up to 
Heaven's pure height. 

So out in the forest, my soul cries to God, 
In a temple of trees, as I kneel on the sod; 
Or alone on the shore, beneath the night's 

pall, 
I worship, and wonder and praise God for 

all. 



THE WATCHMAN 

Watchman! Watchman! high on the 

tower. 
Tell me, what of the night? 
Blows the west wind; what is the hour? 
And does the moon shine bright? 

Watchman! Watchman! whisper to me, 
What is that travels so fast? 
What cloud is that high over the sea, 
Are the " devil-birds " here at last? 

Women and children are their prey, 
" Dear watchman, take good aim! " 
Rend them, and tear them, and turn their 

play. 
To a crashing and roar of flame! 

Twenty or more they boldly fly. 
Over a country town. 
Watchman! up in the air so high, 
I wait to see them come down. 

Pity! Ah! no, my heart is dead. 

And pity has taken flight! 

So tear them down — those " Hell-Hawks" 

dread, 
Nor give them a chance to fight. 

They have taken my mother, they 'vc 

taken my son! 
Why should I fear their fall? 
Speed then to death the " unspeakable 

Hun," 
Watchman, high on the wall! 



ETERNAL PEACE 

What if the night be weary. 
And the hours of darkness long? 
Soon shall the glorious morning 
Open with light and song, 

Oh, for the wonderful dawning 
Of a day that shall never cease. 
When there shall be no more mourning, 
In the light of eternal Peace! 



Silver PF i n g s 



51 



THE LINE 

Oh! splendid line, that holds the flowing 

tide— 
Of hate that beats against it, strong, and 

wide. 
Oh! men, whose brave hearts beat, in 

breasts they bare 
To cruel torture, and whose only care — 
Is that the line should hold! 

They go to death, (not all unknowing, 
now) 

Nor count the cost — tho' full well know- 
ing how 

The awful agony, of throbbing life that's 
torn — 

Freeing the soul, may soon by them be 
born. 

Are our hearts cold? 

God succor them! Surely this little prayer. 

Within our hearts, could be prayed every- 
where! 

Not once or twice but thro' the night and 
day — 

This simple prayer, should fill our hearts 
alway! 

" God help the line to hold! " 

" God give them help! " not any needless 

word. 
But we must mean them if we would be 

heard. 
Steady their hands, and keep their 

courage high. 
Kill fear and grief, and oh! if they, must 

die- 
Make death, to them, so painless swift 

and kind — 
That only happier life, at once they find — 
Within Thy fold. 

SAND OF THE DESERT 

The sands of the desert are scattered, 

afar! 
Oh! but the world is old — 
And they shall be blown to the farthest 

star 
Ere they find the sheltered fold! 



Thick as the sand on Sahara's plain. 

Lie the dead on the battle-field, 

Whose hand shall garner that broad-cast 

grain? 
And what will that harvest yield! 

Dust to dust — Oh, the dust, of the 

thousands there! 
From the North, South, East, and the 

West! 
What God was it, flung all it meant to the 

air! 
And how do we know it was best? 

Oh, God! Our God! whose knowledge 

holds count — 
Of the sands on the shore, and the plain. 
Who fills the infinite; and numbers the 

stars — 
Give us each back our " own one " again; 
That not one — may be missing, and teach 

us to see, 
That " all 's well " with the world. 
For it's ordered, by Thee. 

Every human soul, craves definite, 
knowledge, of God's purpose in the Crea- 
tion, and unquestionable proof, of a 
future life. 

GOOD FRIDAY 1918 

In blood red splendor, rose the moon 

tonight! 
Blood red, the sun, stained all the river's 

tide — 
Oh, blood of ages! shed for you and me — 
Flowing a crimson tide, to death's dark 

sea! 
Oh, Christ! whose blood for us was shed 

today — 
Guard those who crucified, today with 

Thee, 
Give their heart's blood, that we in peace 

may live! 
Priceless the gift, and glorious, they who 

give— 
Dear Saviour take them to Thy loving 

breast, 
And give them Life, Eternal Life, and 

Rest! 



52 



Silver Wings 



THE VISION 

I DREAMED I SEW two sou's Stand bare, 
Before the Judge of all — A blinding glare 
Fell on them — Lifted the lid 
From each thought's hiding place- 
nothing, was hid! 
Then a voice spoke, and all around took 

heed. 
So full of love, it seemed to urge and 

plead — 
Ceaseless, resistless; filling all the air — 
With earnest pleadings, for those standing 

there. 
" This soul " it said, " was broken, tried, 

and torn. 
It fell, but oh! it was reborn — 
And all it had, it gladly gave — 
Beggared itself; that it might save — 
A few — (or many, as might be.) 
And give them life; glad, strong and free!" 
The pleading voice at last was still. 
And then a clear note seemed to fill — 
The whole of space, and say. " Well done, 
My faithful servant; — no — My Son! " 

The other soul had no great thing to give. 
No utmost sacrifice to make, that men 

might live — 
The better — no noble deed, so high and 

great — 
Whereby it might atone for sin — (tho' 

late,) 
Yet it had tried to fill a smaller part — 
Singing glad songs, from out a thankful 

heart. 
To make men's hearts rejoice, keep 

courage high — 
Knowing "All 's well! " tho' they should 

live or die! 
A whisper comes, " Be glad. Oh! tremb- 
ling heart. 
" Fear not! for you have likewise, done 

your part! " 

A PLEA 
Written for the Red Cross Drive 

Down, down, to the bottomless pit, I go. 
What takes me there? — My will to do. 
The' I should die! 



Of my free will I go — I will not live — 
A slacker! So my all I give, 
And should I lie — 

Face to the sky, and limbs outspread. 
Then say — " The one laid here, is dead, 
" Died in great fear! 

" The terror of the grave, was his, before 
" He died, he feared to live, far more, 
"And, Coward! hear." 

Oh, send to him, and those like him, who 

give 
Their utmost, that the world may peace- 
ful live. 
The blessed Red Cross, when their end is 

near! 
That it may bring them Comfort, and 

may cheer, 
May soothe the agony, the endless pain, 
Bringing to many, strength to live again! 
\i they, " Our boys " unfaltering can face, 
The hideous terrors of that awful place, 
Are we too cold, too mean, to give. 
Of all we have — (that they may live) 
A trifling part! How small the loss, 
That fills their need with the Red Cross! 

AWAKE, AMERICA! 

Awake! Awake! America! 
For the whole world awaits. 
The War Lord and his armies. 
Are marching for your gates — 

Awake! Awake! America! 
Fling free the glorious Flag! 
Your enemies are pressing on, 
Don't let your armies lag! 

Awake! Awake! America! 
And show the waiting world. 
That you are not a laggard. 
When once your Flag 's unfurled. 

Awake at last! Go shake your fist. 
In the Kaiser's hideous face! 
So shall you win eternally. 
In the sun, your rightful place! 



Silver Wings 



53 



COME OVER AND HELP US! 

Poor weary creatures, bound and cursed 

by sin, 
And its foul mate, repulsive, dread disease. 
We are responsible, we — whom God has 

blessed — 
Who live our lives of pleasure and of ease. 
And helpless children too, they, who 

should be — 
As fairest blossoms on the tree of love, 
God's treasures lent to us, to keep for 

Him— 
Until matured, perfected, they 're recalled 

above ! 

The task is yours and mine, dare we not 

do— 
The thing we ought, but leave them in the 

grime 
And filth of sin, to which untaught they've 

come. 
God will accuse us. " This thing is your 

crime! 
I gave you truth, and knowledge, faith, 

insight — 
And you have let this hideous, nameless, 

blight. 
Destroy and tarnish, all that should be 

fair — " 
Make reparation, now — or everywhere; 
Far-reaching arms, of retribution sure — 
May seize your own — the tender-nurtured 

pure! 

Note 
Written after reading the report of the 
Home Service Workers in the Wicomico 
News. 

FRIENDSHIP 

Friendship — that perfect gift from man 

to man — 
Must I forego it — ? 
(My hand on this, my friend!) 
Not if I know it! 

A woman I; but still no less a friend — 
And yours, till death (perhaps) — 
Shall friendship end! 



"COULD YE NOT WATCH WITH 

ME?" 

Could ye not watch, one hour with me? " 

Yea, Lord: my soul is Thine! 

And through the watches of the night and 

day — 
My inmost thoughts, are Thine alway, 

I watch with Thee! 
My body's presence, may not always be — 
Within Thy shrine — 
But all my thoughts, and hopes, and all of 
me — 

Is ever Thine! 
I feel Thy presence, know Thy wondrous 

love, 
Dear Lord forgive, and from Thy throne 
above. 

Look down, and see! 
That ever in my inmost soul, and heart. 
I watch with Thee! 
Good Friday, 1919. 



AN ANGELUS 

Across the river, steals the evening light! 

Homeward our faces turn, the day's work 
ended — 

Soon over all, the cloak of deepening 
night, 

Enfolding sleep, again will have de- 
scended — 

A bell! a church bell, flings its music wide. 

An angelus — ? Yes — four our boys out 
there, 

For them — the trenches, have no even- 
tide, 

Of peaceful homecoming — whisper a 
prayer, 

" God keep them safe, for us who care! " 



AT LAST 

Green is the leaf — bird on the bough — 
Spring at last is with us now! 
Herrings, freckles, flies, and fleas. 
Spring-time joys, are all of these! 



54 



Silver Wings 



" GOD GIVETH HIS BELOVED 
SLEEP! " 

Why should we murmur, or futilely weep? 
For those we love, yet could not with us 

keep: 
Surely we know and in our hearts believe 
" God giveth his beloved — sleep." 

The paths that all must travel here, are 

dark and steep, 
The narrow way is hard to find and keep. 
Why should we sorrow when our loved 

ones leave? 
" God giveth his beloved — sleep." 

Dear, happy one! I can not, will not weep 
For you; nor even wish that I might keep 
Your joyous Spirit; God has called it 

home. 
To where He " Giveth his beloved sleep! " 

I shall not lose you; always I shall keep 
Your lovely face before my eyes and deep 
Within my heart. Comfort and peace will 

come. 
" God giveth his beloved — sleep! " 

UNAFRAID! 

"Oh, day of wrath! Oh, dreadful day!" 

The old hymn tune 
To my child heart, brought terror: But so 

soon. 
As childhood passed, I feared, not any 

more: 
For love hnd cast our fear, and long before 
My life had reached its zenith, well I 

knew. 
I feared the world's cruel way, and men — 

a few! 
But GOD, I feared not! Even in the day 
When Heaven, and earth, at last should 



pass away 



So safe I felt, within HIS sheltering arm. 
I knew HE would not work me any harm. 
Tho' Heaven, and earth, in flames, should 

pass today, 
I would not fear; no, not if I mught stay. 
Where I could clearly see — HIS FACE 

ALWAY! 



OUR BOYS 

With shout and yell. 
They tumble pell-mell — 
Into the water! A sudden splash. 
And a swift pink flash. 

Just boys! 

That 's how I know, 

When from my window — 

I watch them dash, down to the river. 

(Say boys! Do you shiver, 

You boys?) 

That summer's come — 

In the blazing sun. 

Their fair young bodies, so clean and 

strong — 
Gleam white, as they play, or race along. 
Happy boys! 

Will they be here soon, 

In the golden noon — 

To play like young river gods, out for a 

spree. 
Or have they gone from their river, and 

me? 

The boys! 

To fight and die. 

Or wounded lie. 

In the muddy trenches, of distant lands! 

Away from the river's golden sands! 

Oh, boys! 

What can I give. 

That they may live? 

That is the question, that each must ask — 

And then fulfil the appointed task. 

For our boys. 

So that once more. 
On the sandy shore, 
Of the sunlit river, at high noonday. 
They may race, and scamper, and frolic 
and play! 

Dear boys! 



Silver fV i n g s 



55 



AMERICA! ENGLAND! 

On seeing the " Stars and Stripes " 
unfurled. 

Fung out its silken folds, and let it wave! 

Under the sky! 

A beacon to guide, our heroes brave, 

To victory! 

England! America! 

America! England! 

May these two countries ever stand. 
Shoulder to shoulder^ hand in hand! 
It is not my flag, yet would I, 
Serve it ever faithfully — 
Though " over there," 
Even the very dust is dear! 
England! America! 
America! England! 

This is my prayer. 
May our two countries ever stand, 
Shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand! 
It is not my flag, but I love it well. 
Long may it wave! and ever spell, 
VICTORY! for us, who stand. 
Shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand! 



VICTORY! 

Victory! Great God! and Peace with 

Honor ours. 
Victory! and for our heroes flowers; 
Crown them with glory, shower them with 

praise 
When they come back to us, and let us 

raise 
A monument of love to honored dead 
Who will return no more, to tread 
The paths beside us, but who reap 
The fruits of sacrifice. Forever keep 
Their memory sacred, for they died that 

we 
Might live our lives unshackled, glorious, 

free! 



ARMENIA 

Armenia! Oh, Armenia! Deported, tor- 
tured, slain. 

Westward your eyes are turning, and they 
fill with hope again. 

Four hundred thousand! Orphaned! 

Hungry! Cold! 
Through their poor rags the bitter winter 

wind 
Chills their thin forms. 
Babes, like the one a tender mother 

holds — 
So soft and warm, upon her happy 

breast — 
Are homeless, starving, with no place to 

rest 
Their shivering bodies, save the bare, 

cold ground — 
While we, draw round the fire and thank 

the powers, that be; 
That ours are amply fed and safe at home 

and warm. 
What hand shall feed and shelter these 

poor babes? 
And who will keep them safe and free 

from harm? 
Great God of Mercy! give us grace to see 
In this glad moment of our victory. 
That if we would not ingrates all, be 

found, 
We give to these. — Lest in our direst need, 
God turns His face away, and takes no 

heed. 

EVEN THERE 
Sink sun, sink in the river! 
Hide in the mists that lie — 
Like Ghosts, (they make me shiver!) 
Between the river and sky! 

Oh! for the glory of manhood — 
Swept by the tide away. 
That flows in a stemless torrent. 
To the gates of Eternal Day! 

Heart do not break with aching. 
Lips! do not faint in prayer — 
God in His mercy and glory. 
Is with them, even there! 



56 



Silver Wings 



THE MIRROR 

A MIRROR hung on a chamber wall, 

As high as a man who was straight and 

tall. 
And a tiny child each time they would 

pass 
On his shoulder perched, as she looked in 

the glass. 
In her heart with a sad little sigh, would 

say, 
" I wish my eyes did not look that way! " 
Great brown eyes in a small white face, 
Whose drooping lids seemed scarce held 

in place, 
Frail little hands too tired to play. 
Passed and repassed the mirror that day. 

Only a year or two older grown 

But able to play and walk alone, 

A child climbs up to the glass on the wall, 

And smilingly thinks, as her face she sees. 

Those eyes I once saw, were not like these. 

A little shy elf, with long brown curls. 

Dainty and sweet — cheeks of rose, teeth 

like pearls. 
Again she climbs that the mirror may tell 
The budding woman, that all is well. 
And as eyes are raised, half-roguish, half- 
shy 
Once more, she is lifted shoulder high. 

Radiant and fair with the glamor of 

youth, 
To the mirror again, she goes seeking the 

truth. 
Woman, or goddess, she walks on air. 
For she has entered love's garden fair! 
Why should she think of those eyes of 

pain 
As she sees her face in the mirror again! 
" My love is mine! I am his! " she cries. 
Then startled, she veils her passionate 

eyes. 

A broken mirror stills hangs on the wall. 
High as a man that is straight and tall. 



And a woman, withered, and white and 

wan. 
Pauses to gaze, ere she passes on. 
" Mirror! " she says, " I am all alone. 
For father, husband and sons are gone! 
None is there here who is straight and tall, 
So I turn, broken mirror, your face to the 

wall! " 

MY GARDEN 

I MADE me a garden of roses fair. 

Each rose it was tended with love and 

with prayer, 
I made me a garden of roses fair! 

The first to bloom was a rose so red. 
That I thought as it lifted its splendid 

head; 
Never was rose as this so red! 

Oh, lovely rose that I thought my own, 
Ambition soon claimed you when you 

were grown; 
Dear red rose that I thought my own! 

My next splendid rose, grew so tall and 

strong 
That a woman snatched it, as she passed 

along — 
Striking my heart, with my rose so strong! 

But one lovely rose was left of them all! 
Fair as was any, sweet scented, and tall — 
Beautiful rosebud, last of them all! 

Then a whirlwind raged, and a hurricane 

blew, 
A great tidal wave swept my garden 

through — 
You were there sweet rose, when the 

hurricane blew! 

Now the floods have passed over, but no 

rose is there, 
My garden is empty, clean swept, and 

bare, 
All my roses are gone from my garden 

fair! 



Silver Wings 



57 



LOVERIOF MINE 

Lover of mine! Lover of mine! For we 

love tho' our heads are grey — 
It may not be long ere our bodies lie, 
In some little graveyard, by the side of 

the way. 
While youth flaunts by, in such brave 

array; 
But that youth holds all of Life that is 

best. 
Who shall say till they 've tried the rest? 
Lover of mine! Lover of mine! 

Youth's love is tortured by doubt, and by 

fear — 
And flutters unstably throughout the 

year. 
Like a butterfly seeking a fairer flower. 
But the love our hearts know, ever grows 

in power — 
The best of Life's gifts, since the vivid 

hour — 
That gave us each other — most wonderful 

dower! 
Lover of mine! Lover of mine! 

The love that is ours, as the years go by. 

And the knowledge that tho' all else may 
die — 

Love is eternally the same. Life's per- 
manent bond and surety — 

For Love is not faith, nor is passion Love, 
nor worship of purity. 

Love is itself, and belongs to youth, no 
more than to life's maturity — 

Death can not break love's endless spell, 
nor ever tear down his divinity. 
Lover of mine! Lover of mine! 

HEART'S DESIRE 

Two things I dream of, two things I 

desire — 
With a longing that burns like a flaming 

fire. 
Your lips my love, and the heart of the 

world! 
Ere my dream is dead, and Life's wings 

be furled. 



Not honor, nor fame, nor yellow gold, 
Nor would I as monarch, the world-power 

hold- 
Only your lips, and the heart of the world: 
For my own, ere Death's arrows at last 

be hurled. 

Only your lips, at the close of the day — 
Beloved I 'm dreaming of them alway! 
Only your lips, my heart's desire — 
Ere in my heart dies, youth's radiant fire. 

And for the songs that I sing today, 
I ask of the world no golden pay — 
No laurels or honors, no banners unfurled, 
Only your heart. Oh! most wonderful 
world! 



MODEST WISHES 
With apologies 

I WANT to be an author. 
With my hand upon my brow, 
I want to be an author. 
And I want to be it now! 

I want to be an artist. 
With brushes and with paint, 
I want to be, and don't want you, 
To tell me that I ain't — 

I want to be a beauty. 
With lovely eyes and smile. 
Run off upon the fil-lum screen. 
For dazzhng mile on mile. 

I want to be so popular. 
That when down our long street, 
I take my daily promenade, 
Beaus crowd around my feet. 

I want to be so much admired. 
Each man will stop his car. 
And ask me on his bended knee. 
If I am walking far? 

And with it all I want to be. 
So good, and kind, and true. 
That all the world, will love me so. 
You can but love me too. 



ss 



Silver Wings 



THE NIGHT WIND 

Tell me, night wind; whisper, night wind, 

Softly blowing on my breast. 

What fragrant gardens have you passed 

Ere you came here to rest? 

Magnolias and Mimosa, and the tall 

Aloes scent. 
Are on your breath. Oh! night wind. 
So I know where you went. 

You softly stirred the curtains 

On my love's window, where 

She is sleeping like a wood nymph. 

With flowers in her hair. 

Like a fair rose in summer 

My Love is sleeping there! 

Night wind, murmuring night wind. 
You passed across her lips 
Bringing me their dainty fragrance. 
And you touched her finger tips! 
Tell me, night wind, are her eyes blue. 
When she opens them at night? 
As they are in my dreams of her 
And in the morning light! 

Oh, night wind! Warm, soft night wind! 
Linger yet awhile, and rest — 
Then turning, take my heart to her 
And lay it in her breast. 

MY LORD'S PALANQUIN 

At noon I saw my Lord go by; 
Hidden, to watch him pass. 
Then turned again to see my face 
Look from the hanging glass. 
Surely a lovely face, so young. 
So fair, so full of joy. 
And yet although my heart was his 
1 was but his last toy. 

Not many moons ago, he held 

Another in his arms, 

I passed his gate! Flamed the desire 

To own my youthful charms. 

And now, without a thought of me 

His chariots pass my door. 

As forth on sport or pleasure bent. 

He journeys through Tanjore. 



Beloved — I would call you back. 

Had I the Yogi's skill — 

But in my arms, unwilling held, 

I would not keep you still. 

What is my crime that love no more 

Greets me within your eyes ? 

Am I less fair? My lips less warm? 

Lacking in what am I ? 

I loved you not, I knew you not, 

Thought not of you at all — 

Till that dear day you carried me 

To my gate without the wall. 

How ardently you sought my love. 

And strove my heart to win; 

As you bore me through the city's streets. 

In your own Palanquin. 

The moonlight gleams as fair as then. 

On Tanjore's marbled beauties, 

The sunsets paint the river, with 

The rainbow hues, of yore. 

But my Lord, is over-burdened 

By his pleasures, and his duties. 

And I travel in his Palanquin no more. 

A FRIEND 

A SMILE on your lip, and a glance of your 

eye. 
Is the greeting I want as I pass by — 
The hand of a brother, the clasp of a 

friend. 
Where nothing is broken, there 's nothing 

to mend! 

Be, " hail fellow! well met," With the 

world and his wife — 
You will gather more joy, in your journey 

through Life, 
But true friendship's clasp, is the closest 

of all 
When we stand at the last with our backs 

to the wall. 

So give me the glance of your eye, friend 

of mine — 
Straight, and true; of our comradeship, 

be it the sign — 
That down in the depths of my heart 

I may say. 
True friendship is mine, for ever and aye! 



THE HEART'S ANSWER 

Flint on steel! Flint on steel! 

Oh, living spark! I feel! I feel! 

Flint on gold, flint on gold 

No spark is there; flat, dead and cold. 

So your heart calls to mine and I 
Flash back the answer to your cry. 
Not pulseless gold, but flint on steel. 
Beloved heart, I feel! I feel! 



H251 78 525 



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